Section 3.1 AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL Page 1 of 3 · Section 3.1 AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL Page 1...

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.1 AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL of 3

REVISION: 0 January 2006

Purpose The purpose of this activity is to reduce the interference of aquatic plants (i.e., macrophytes) with the navigation of boats, irrigation water withdrawal, fishing and aquaculture activities (shellfish and finfish), swimming and other recreational uses. Definition Aquatic vegetation control is the management or control of plants in bays, estuaries, rivers, ponds, and other types of impoundments. Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize disturbance to the aquatic

environment. • To minimize disturbance to fish, shellfish

and wildlife habitat. • To maintain or improve water quality. • To minimize risk of spreading invasive

species (coastal waters and estuarine habitat).

Planning Considerations Aquatic plants provide many benefits. Macrophytes in particular are an important component of fish habitat, providing cover, spawning, nursery and feeding areas for many species. They also provide essential habitat for many species of wildlife, including food, nesting sites, and protective cover for waterfowl as well as substrate for the attachment of invertebrates. Rooted aquatic plants also act to stabilize shorelines and watercourse substrates. This helps to maintain water quality by reducing erosion and turbidity. In view of the benefits provided by aquatic plants, the need for plant removal should always be evaluated carefully. Some nutrient rich waters may support excessive plant growth which may be detrimental to both healthy aquatic communities and recreational use. Excessive aquatic growth impacts adversely on water quality. Plants, including algae, produce oxygen through photosynthesis during daylight hours and consume oxygen with respiration at night. Thus, the lowest oxygen levels in a watercourse are normally found at

dawn. In ice covered ponds, plants continue to respire and consume dissolved oxygen. Normally, some regions of all ponds retain adequate supplies of dissolved oxygen for survival of aquatic plants as well as fish in the winter. The zone near the bottom of the pond may have extremely low oxygen levels, compared to other areas. Fish kills can occasionally occur during spring overturn when the water is thoroughly mixed, and the overall oxygen level becomes depleted (<4 mg/L). Increased plant growth often occurs over long periods of time as a result of the natural aging process of a watercourse or wetland. It is part of the ecological cycle and should be recognized as such. However, plant growth is often accelerated by human activities occurring in the watershed. Addition of nutrients through shoreline development, lot clearing, use of lawn fertilizers and high-phosphate dishwashing detergents, and agricultural runoff all contribute to the excessive growth of plants. Aquatic plants that become invasive/noxious in these various habitats may grow entirely submersed, float on the water surface, or be anchored to the hydro-soil with the their leaves on or above the water surface. On Prince Edward Island, pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.) and coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) are found in many aquatic areas and are non-native invasive species of concern. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), a semi aquatic plant, is invading many Island wetlands. Aquatic invaders, such as oyster thief (Codium fragile), establish populations in nearshore waters and can displace native plants/aquatic species. Oyster thief is a green algae native to Japan and is now found in the waters of PEI. Oyster thief displaces native kelp, which is a preferred habitat for sea urchins and lobster. Oyster thief smothers mussels and oysters, preventing them from opening their shells to filter feed. These weakened shellfish are easy targets for predators. As well, oyster thief can lift shellfish off their beds and float away with them. The control of nutrient and sediment inputs to surface waters generally provides the best long-term protection against excessive aquatic



plant growth. When heavy plant growth already exists, limited aquatic plant control for recreational purposes may be appropriate. Every effort should be made to identify and document the location of important fish habitat in the vicinity of areas proposed for treatment. Particular attention should be paid to the quality and quantity of spawning, nursery and feeding areas which could be affected by the treatment. Special consideration should also be given to habitat types provided by plant species believed to be in limited supply in the water body in question. For example, wetland areas should be identified and their value as fish and wildlife habitat documented. Techniques for Aquatic Vegetation Control There are various types of methods used to control or manage aquatic plants including: 1. Drawdown B is the lowering of the water

level of an impoundment. This activity is described in more detail in the Impoundments section. The drawdown of the impoundment and freezing of the plants can be an efficient method of controlling aquatic vegetation.

2. Manual Harvesting B The removal of

aquatic plants by hand-pulling, hand raking, hand cutting and other labour intensive manual techniques.

3. Mechanical harvesting B The use of heavy

equipment or other machinery is generally not permitted (except in a drawdown situation) due to the potential disturbance of the watercourse.

4. Biological or chemical control B The use of

biological and/or chemical controls must be reviewed and approved by the Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture. Herbicides are used elsewhere but are not permitted for use in fish bearing waters. On Prince Edward Island, three species of beetles are licensed to control the spread of purple loosestrife. The three beetles are Hylobius transerovittatus (a root weevil), Galerucella calmariensis and G. pussilla (both defoliators). The introduction of exotic herbivorous fish (i.e., the grass carp

Ctenopharynogodon idella) is not acceptable.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information on the application form, a copy of the following must be provided: 1. A plan, profile and cross sectional drawing

clearly indicating: a. The area where the plants will

be removed from; and b. The area where aquatic

vegetation will be disposed of in an approved manner.

2. A complete description of the method (i.e.,

drawdown, manual /mechanical harvesting, biological/chemical control) to be used.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur. Guidelines Landowner permission must be obtained. All cut and uprooted vegetation must be removed from the water to maintain water quality and to avoid interference with other water users. The vegetation must be disposed of in a provincially approved manner. Leave all rocks and woody material in the area that is being cleared of aquatic vegetation, unless they are obstructing navigation. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning



and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). Removal activities may not be permitted in marine protected areas (e.g., Basin Head) or in areas where threatened or endangered species, or species of special concern, have been identified. Vegetation must not be removed from the banks of the watercourse. Prior to and after carrying out this activity wash boat, anchor, trailer and other equipment with fresh water or spray with undiluted vinegar. Let equipment dry completely before going to a new site. Report sightings of invasive species to the Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture or to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

For Government Purposes Drawdown - Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Manual Harvesting - Applications for these activities require Regulatory Review. Mechanical Harvesting - Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Biological and Chemical Control - Applications for these activities must be directed to the PEI Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.2 BARRIER BEACH PONDS Page 1 of 2


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide or improve tidal flushing and water exchange on coastal ponds. Definition The removal of accumulated beach sediments from the outflow channel of coastal ponds, or remove impediments to flow such as drift wood or other organic material in order to improve/ facilitate water exchange or prevent damage (e.g., flooding) to surrounding public infrastructure.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To provide fish passage. • To improve water exchange and quality. • To minimize flooding upstream of the

pond. • To minimize impacts to the surrounding

ecosystems and other wildlife species.

Planning Considerations Barrier beach ponds are natural water bodies and the management activities should be carefully considered. Timing of year will influence management or maintenance options. A normal cycle in the pond outlet includes closure of the run at low water and opening of the run through autumn/winter storms as well as the spring freshet. Each pond is a unique and diverse ecosystem and the opportunity to improve flushing and water exchange differ in each situation. In addition, the frequency of sediment accumulation and volume of material at the pond outlet must be considered when planning management or maintenance options to barrier beach ponds. A large volume of material and frequency of sediment accumulation may eliminate any practical options for pond management and the best option for management may be no intervention.

Removal of accumulated sediments from a pond outlet will have an impact on water levels in the pond thereby causing significant impacts to the pond ecosystem. This fluctuation in water level can impact nesting waterfowl species and alter the vegetative composition of the pond. For example, some rare plant (e.g., annual salt marsh aster) and bird (e.g., piping plover) species are restricted to a narrow band of habitat along the run or around the outlet.

The removal of accumulated sediments from the outlet of a barrier beach pond should only be carried out when the benefits of the removal exceed the cumulative effects of the associated environmental impacts.

The excavation of sediments from a pond outlet will typically involve the use of heavy equipment/motor vehicles. Equipment access options must be considered where impacts to wetlands, sand dunes or other coastal environments are minimal.

The deposition of excavated sediment must also be located in an area where it will not have detrimental impacts to nearby coastal environments.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. the rationale for the proposed activity; 2. a plan, profile, and drawing of the

existing and proposed channel; 3. a description of the proposed equipment

and method; 4. the proposed access route to the

excavation site (including permission of landowners);

5. how the removed material will be

disposed of (methods and sites). Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.2 BARRIER BEACH PONDS Page 2 of 2


Guidelines Work must be conducted in a manner that will not result in any disturbance to adjacent areas; either from the placement of excavated materials or by access to the site by heavy equipment/motor vehicles. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service machinery and store fuel and other materials for the machinery away from the water to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water.

Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of fluid leaks or spills from machinery.

For Government Purposes Applications for these activities require Regulatory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.3 BEACH CONSTRUCTION Page 1 of 2


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to create a stable beach area resistant to hydraulic forces from the watercourse or wetland and erosive forces of upland runoff. Generally the creation of new beaches is not permitted on Prince Edward Island.

Definition Beach construction is the addition of clean sand and gravel material to the bank and land adjacent to a watercourse or wetland to create a beach for recreational purposes. Environmental Protection Objective • To preserve the fish habitat and aquatic

vegetation in the shallow waters of estuaries, salt marshes and rivers.

Planning Considerations Attempts at construction of a sand beach where none exists naturally are unlikely to succeed. In many cases, yearly replenishment of sand would be necessary to sustain the beach area and permission to do so would not be granted. Sand will not stay in place on a solid rock shoreline with heavy wave action. Areas with high concentrations of organics in the substrate will not be able to support the addition of sand either, because organics will eventually displace or cover the beach area. Concerns with beach construction may include the destruction or degradation of feeding, spawning, nursery, or rearing areas for finfish, shellfish and other aquatic species as a result of influxes of sand into the shallow and outlying areas. Beach construction can result in negative impacts on the near shore areas of estuaries, coastal areas and rivers (i.e., intertidal zones). Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. the rationale for the project;

2. the location of the project (above or below the high water mark);

3. fully dimensioned sketches of a plan and

profile view of the proposed beach; 4. a detailed description of the existing

vegetation; 5. a description of known species of finfish,

shellfish and/or wildlife which may utilize/inhabit the intertidal zone for lifecycle stages;

6. timing and method of construction; and 7. the type of material (sand, gravel) to be

used. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur. Guidelines Landowner permission must be obtained. The material added to a beach must be clean, uncontaminated coarse sand or fine gravel. No material may be excavated from the watercourse. Work must be conducted in a manner so as not to result in any siltation or disturbance to adjacent areas. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.3 BEACH CONSTRUCTION Page 2 of 2


Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall).

For Government Purposes

Applications for this activity require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse or Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.4 BEAVER DAM REMOVAL Page 1 of 3


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to remove or breach a beaver dam in order to protect, maintain or construct infrastructure or to avoid the flooding of private and public land without negatively impacting the watercourse, wetland or current aquatic resources and users. Definition The removal of natural water retaining structures created by beavers and typically constructed of wood, organic matter, mud, gravel and rocks. Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize impacts on infrastructure

and personal property. • To minimize impacts on aquatic and

wildlife habitat and restore fish passage. • To minimize impacts to downstream

fishing and aquaculture operations. • To minimize the movement of sediment

downstream. • To control the release of large quantities

of water. • To minimize impacts to water quality. Planning Considerations Beavers are managed not only for their fur, but more importantly as wetland developers. Beavers and beaver dams are protected under the Prince Edward Island Wildlife Conservation Act. The flooding of areas due to beaver dam construction and the respective back-flooding that occurs can provide valuable open-water habitat for the creation and enhancement of wetlands. They can also provide pool habitat for fish. The open-water and the removal of shade on the watercourse can also create elevated water temperatures during the summer months which may decrease fish habitat

quality for cold-water species of fish. The dam structure in some instances may also hinder or eliminate fish passage due to the height of the dam and lack of concentrated water flows. Property damage may be caused by the blocking of watercourse crossings structures which results in the flooding and erosion of roadways. The flooding of properties can have a negative effect on landscaping, land use and infrastructures such as septic systems, wells and basements. Non-mechanical (by hand) removal of beaver dams is the preferred method. This method minimizes disturbances to the bed and banks of the watercourse and should be considered wherever possible. Beaver dam removals will be carried out under the auspices of the “Prince Edward Island Beaver Policy” (Appendix I). Beaver dam removals will not be permitted under normal conditions where: - no property damage is demonstrated - the dam has established a wetland that

is being utilized by breeding waterfowl. Removal may be permitted after the broods have left.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. timing of the activity, 2. method and machinery to be used, 3. size and location of impoundment, 4. status of beaver activity at the site (i.e.,

active or inactive dam), 5. detailed mitigation plan for release of

water and containment of sediments, 6. description of downstream and

upstream resources and users.



Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1. Prince Edward Island Department of

Environment, Energy and Forestry: A beaver dam cannot be removed until the Department, through the Prince Edward Island nuisance animal standard permitting process and provincial beaver policy, has reviewed and approved the proposal.

2. To verify land ownership rights, the

original deeds should be checked with the Taxation and Land Registry Division of the PEI Department of Provincial Treasury. In coastal areas most lands below the high water mark are owned by the Province of Prince Edward Island.

3. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is

responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

Guidelines The beaver must be removed prior to undertaking the removal of the beaver dam. This removal must be undertaken in compliance with all Acts and Regulations. A Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator or a licensed trapper should be contacted to undertake the removal. Non-mechanical (by hand) removal of beaver dams is the preferred method. Beaver dam removal is preferably not done in the winter when the pond is frozen. This may result in losses of habitat for over-wintering fish in the upstream pond.

The removal of the beaver dam will be limited to the debris of the structure. Original watercourse bed and bank material may not be removed or disturbed. For non-emergency beaver dam removal, time the use of machinery to protect aquatic (e.g., spawning fish, incubating eggs, etc.) and wildlife (e.g., muskrats, mink, etc.) species. It is preferable that removal is done during low flow conditions. Install effective sediment and erosion control measures before starting work to prevent the entry of sediment into the watercourse. Inspect them regularly during the course of construction to ensure they are functioning properly. Make all necessary repairs if any damage is discovered. The removal of vegetation may be necessary to access and remove the beaver dam. This removal should be kept to a minimum. Vegetate any disturbed areas by seeding and planting trees, shrubs or grasses and cover vegetated areas with mulch to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate. Operate machinery in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the banks and bed of the watercourse. If heavy equipment is to be used, excavators and backhoes are recommended for the removal of beaver dams due to their ability to remove only the debris without disturbing the streambed or banks. They also work well from the road surface, which would be the most preferred method. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service machinery and store fuel and other materials for the machinery away from the water to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of fluid leaks or spills from machinery.



The impounded water should be released over an extended period so as to minimize silt flushing from the impounded area and reduce channel erosion downstream due to the increased discharge and water velocities. As the water levels drop in the upstream pond, increase the size of the opening to drain the pond to the desired level. The width of the breach opening of the beaver dam should not exceed the width of the original stream channel to prevent bank erosion and flooding of adjacent properties. Be prepared to relocate any fish that become trapped in isolated pools or stranded in newly flooded areas to the main channel of the watercourse. Beaver dam management devices should be used in order to discourage the building of beaver dams. Such devices must not obstruct fish passage, Devices and techniques that maintain water flows and fish passage through the dam should be considered.

Debris removed from the beaver dam must be placed above the high water mark or disposed of in such a way so that it does not re-enter the stream.

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require Regulatory Review. Depending on the scope of the project the application may also require Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.5 BRIDGES Page 1 of 8


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide a safe, sturdy, low maintenance and environmentally sound crossing structure with a waterway opening large enough to pass peak flows and prevent ice or debris jams; or to remove an existing bridge without compromising the watercourse or aquatic habitats. Definition Bridge construction or replacement is the building of a structure over a watercourse, the deck of which forms a link in the road or footpath. Bridges can be single (clear) or multi span. Bridge maintenance includes work on the components of a bridge such as wingwall repair, deck replacement or guardrail installations/replacements. Bridge removal includes the disassembling of the single or multi-span bridge and its components (e.g., wingwalls, stringers, piers, piles and abutments). Environmental Protection Objectives • To maintain free, unobstructed fish

passage through the crossing providing fish with migration paths for spawning, rearing, feeding and wintering.

• To prevent sedimentation of the

watercourse or adjacent wetland as a result of construction and installation of the structure.

• To prevent erosion of the banks and bed

as a result of construction and installation of the structure.

• To prevent deleterious substances from

entering the watercourse.

Planning Considerations Bridges must be constructed from durable materials providing safe access across the watercourse. If properly designed and constructed they offer few risks of failure

and little interruption of natural hydraulic characteristics. Bridges are preferred as watercourse crossings from an environmental and fisheries standpoint when compared with culverts for the following reasons: 1. Bridges retain the natural watercourse

bed, thereby allowing uninhibited movement of bedload material.

2. Bridges help preserve the natural cross

sectional area of the channel therefore maintaining the flow regime.

3. Fish pass more freely through bridge

crossings; they rarely provide a barrier to migration.

4. Bridge construction requires less

instream activity, therefore less environmental impact.

Because the potential for significant environmental impact caused by culvert installation is great, bridges are generally recommended for major crossings. The main components of a single span bridge include abutments, stringers, deck and railings. • Abutments are the foundation of the

bridge, supporting the structure and protecting the banks of the watercourse or wetland from the pressure of the traffic using the bridge.

• Stringers are the pieces spanning the

abutments forming a connection between them, and used to support the deck of the bridge.

• The deck material usually consists of

timbers placed on top and perpendicular to the stringers; it constitutes the floor of the bridge.

• Railings are often placed at the sides of

the bridge to be used as a guide for traffic.



The main components of a multi span bridge are the same as the single span bridge with the addition of piers. Piers are the intermediate supports between abutments on bridges of more than one span. Because clear-span bridges completely cross a watercourse without altering the stream bed or bank there should be no alteration of the natural channel processes. However, given that construction may impact the watercourse or aquatic vegetation, interdepartmental review required prior to the construction or replacement of clear/single span bridges will vary with the size and location of the structure. Building multi-span bridges is a major undertaking and the alteration to the watercourse or wetland can vary greatly depending on the size and number of piers in the structure. All proposals for multi-span bridges require interdepartmental consultation and detailed project review. Watercourse or wetland alteration permits for bridges generally dictate the minimum rise and span of the structure. Permits are sometimes issued specifying the minimum waterway opening only. In these instances, the rise and span must be planned according to existing conditions at the crossing site. Several factors must be considered:

• The design must take into account the amount of ice that may pass under the bridge to ensure that the structure will not become blocked;

• The rise must provide sufficient

clearance to keep the roadbed free from flowing waters which may overtop the structure during periods of high flow endangering the road and the aquatic habitat; and

• The rise must also provide for sufficient clearance for navigation.

Route selection for access roads should be designed to minimize the number of watercourse or wetland crossings. For public access roads, interchanges and merging lanes should be located as far as possible from watercourse or wetlands. The length of the bridge should also be minimized by planning to construct them at right angles to the watercourse or wetland. Bridge construction should be avoided at any site where the banks are unstable or eroding, or where the watercourse meanders. Sites where the soils are unstable or erodible (fine sand, silt, or clay) should also be avoided. The recommended capacity for bridges in Prince Edward Island is based on a 100 year return period flow, which means that the waterway opening should be large enough to pass a peak flow or flood which



has a one per cent (1%) chance of occurring in any given year. Peak flow is influenced by the drainage area, rainfall intensity, type of soil and ground cover and land use. Bridges should be designed with a hydraulic capacity large enough to pass a peak flow with a 100 year return period. The hydraulic capacity of the bridge is dictated by the waterway opening which is a product of the average rise and span of the structure. The structures should be designed to ensure that the maximum design water velocity is 1.8 metres per second in a one in 100 year discharge event. When an application for a bridge is reviewed by the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy & Forestry, a design flow is calculated which represents the actual peak flow expected at the location of the crossing. The design flow is based on the drainage area with consideration given to factors such as precipitation and physiography. The waterway opening proposed in the application must accommodate the design flow. In some circumstances, historic data from hydrometric stations located throughout the province is used to estimate the peak flow. When estimating the waterway opening necessary for the crossing site without the benefit of hydrometric data or the size of the drainage basin, the waterway opening required to pass the peak flow can be roughly estimated using indications of flood levels which can be observed on the banks of the watercourse such as ice scour marks or changes in vegetation. The proposed size will be evaluated when the application for an alteration permit is processed. To minimize environmental impacts caused by erosion and sedimentation the length of the construction period must be kept to a minimum and planned so as not to coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish, such as spawning and egg incubation times. There will be variation in specific conditions for different areas throughout the province depending on the number and species of fish/shellfish involved. Generally, the construction period is best planned to take

place during the low flow period recommended for all watercourse or wetland alterations which is between June 1st and September 30th, every year. The reasons for this are listed below: 1. There will be less impact on fish

activities during this time frame. 2. It is easier to isolate low flows in order to

work in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). Diverting high flows could lead to flooding and the introduction of sediment into the watercourse or wetland.

3. There will be adequate warm weather

after this period to establish vegetation on the disturbed portions of the construction site.

4. It is easier to move and stabilize soil

during this period. Soils are generally either frozen or water saturated at other times of the year making them more difficult to move.

Special consideration must also be given to shellfish (commercial, aquaculture and recreational) areas and the timing of construction must take into account spatfall windows and other sensitive characteristics of the resource, which may require adjustments to timing of the project.

Sediment Control Considerations Excessive quantities of sediment entering the watercourse can severely impact the aquatic environment. Fine particles settling on the bed of the watercourse can smother the organisms living there and destroy fish spawning and rearing habitat. Large quantities of sediment may also affect the hydraulic capacity of a watercourse by reducing the cross sectional area and thereby increasing the potential for flooding. Construction plans must take into account sediment control during all phases of the alteration and continue until all disturbed ground has been permanently stabilized to ensure that suspended soil particles in surface runoff water are trapped before being discharged into the aquatic environment. All in-stream work should be done in isolation of stream flow (in the dry)



to avoid introducing sediment into the watercourse. Cofferdams may be used to isolate the work area from the flowing water thus keeping the sediment out of the watercourse. Road Construction Considerations Clearing and grubbing for the road right of way should be kept to a minimum as vegetation acts as a natural filter, keeping fine particles from entering the watercourse or wetland. Once the road has been constructed, proper drainage must be maintained by using roadside ditches and cross drainage culverts to prevent excess precipitation from washing across the road and introducing sediment into the watercourse or wetland. A well drained road will reduce the amount of sediment entering the watercourse or wetland and be capable of supporting heavier loads as well.

Off-take ditches are water control structures that should be directed towards a vegetated area to filter out the sediment before it enters the watercourse or adjacent wetland. If the slope of the roadside ditch is steep, any sediment laden water should be routed through a settling pond or sediment trap to remove particles before the water enters the watercourse or adjacent wetland. If a road is being constructed adjacent to a watercourse or wetland, sediment barriers should be placed between the roadway and the watercourse/wetland to intercept runoff. Many types of sediment barriers are available for use such as: silt fences (woven geotextile fabric), hay bales, mulch, or brush barriers (made up of logs, brush or slash debris). These barriers should be placed on and at the base of exposed upland surfaces, fill slopes, or any surface that might discharge sediment into the watercourse or adjacent wetland.



Bridge Removal The removal of bridges, similar to their installation, must take into account the timing of activities, water control measures, sediment control considerations and limiting the area of disturbance. When removing a collapsed bridge that has trapped and accumulated sediment, place sediment control devices in the watercourse before beginning the alteration. This will intercept sediment before it moves downstream and protect aquatic habitats. All work should be conducted completely in isolation of water flow (in the dry). Two possible options to allow this are: • divert the streamflow through a

temporary plastic lined channel. The new channel must be designed (length, slope, etc.) to accommodate flows and prevent the movement of fines upstream of the obstruction.

• cofferdam the streamflow and pump the

water around the site. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. proposed size, shape and alignment

including the rise and span;

2. plan, profile, and cross sectional

drawings to scale; 3. proposed construction methods and

materials for each component of the bridge;

4. for multi span bridges and clear span

bridges allowing highway traffic, stamped engineer drawings will be required;

5. for bridge construction/repair/removal

proposals with a potential to expose large areas of barren soil it is necessary to prepare a surface water control plan to address each phase of the work.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1. The approval of Transport Canada

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, must be obtained when a structure is to be placed in or across any navigable watercourse or wetland.



2. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

Guidelines Bridge abutments should not constrict the width of the channel and must be parallel to the banks of the watercourse or wetland. If the abutments are made from concrete, they should be pre-cast and air dried for a period of at least twenty one days before being placed in the water or; poured in place in isolation of stream flow (in the dry) and cured for at least one week prior to form removal. The abutments must be founded on solid ground. If the foundation material is soft, it should be replaced with clean pit run gravel or rock.

The abutments should be set back from the wetted portion of the channel. All work necessary for abutment and pier construction must be carried out in isolation of stream flow (in the dry) using cofferdams to isolate the work areas from the flowing water. At all times during the construction or removal phase at least two thirds of the

channel cross section must remain open to maintain fish passage. Be prepared to relocate any fish that become trapped in isolated pools to the main channel of the watercourse. It is important to minimize disturbances caused by the construction or removal phase and to stabilize the site without delay to prevent siltation of the watercourse. Materials used in the construction of the crossing and the approaches should not be obtained within 10 metres of the watercourse. Operate machinery on land (above the high water mark) or on the water (e.g., from a boat or barge) in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the banks or bed of the watercourse. The width of the grubbed zone should be no more than the total width of the roadway, fill embankments and ditches. Debris generated during the project must be prevented from entering the watercourse. If material enters the watercourse it must be immediately removed and disposed of in a provincially approved manner. Washing of equipment, concrete forms or machinery must not take place in or adjacent to the watercourse. All creosote treated timbers must be air dried for a minimum of twelve months before being placed in the watercourse. Standard techniques for sediment control, such as the use of temporary check dams and/or silt fences, must be employed to prevent surface runoff and the introduction of sediment directly into the watercourse or adjacent wetland. Sediment barriers, such as silt fences or hay bales, must be placed along the toe of the slope of the fill material used to construct the approaches to the structures. Vegetate all disturbed bank and riparian areas to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate. If there is insufficient time



(at least four weeks) in the growing season remaining for the seeds to germinate, the site should be stabilized (e.g., cover exposed areas with erosion control blankets to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion) and vegetated the following spring. Grubbing cannot be carried out within the Forested Zone Riparian Buffer Zone and/or within 10 metres of the watercourse except where necessary to remove stumps under the road bed and then not until construction of the crossing is ready to begin. Stream crossing widths should be kept to a minimum. The bridge should be designed so that the span does not constrict the flow of the water. The bridge abutments should be aligned so that they do not direct the flow into the banks of the watercourse. Bank protection, in the form of rip rap, must be provided if bridge alignment results in deflection of flow against either bank. Abutments and pier(s) should be set below the possible depth of scour. Rip rap or wingwalls should be placed at both the upstream and downstream ends of the structure to help prevent erosion. Excavated materials must not be allowed to enter the watercourse. Care must be taken during the placing and removal of the cofferdams to prevent cofferdam material from washing downstream. Adequately seal drains and open joints before sweeping or washing to prevent materials and sediment-laden wash water from entering the watercourse. Clean and remove debris and sediment from drainage devices and dispose of the material in a provincially approved manner. Sweep decks, including curbs, sidewalks, medians and drainage devices to remove as much material as practical before washing.

Direct the wash-water past the ends of the bridge deck to a vegetated area to remove suspended solids, dissipate velocity and prevent sediment from entering the watercourse. If this cannot be achieved, use silt fences or other sediment and erosion control measures to prevent wash-water from entering the watercourse. When extracting water from a watercourse, ensure the intakes of pumping hoses are equipped with an appropriate device to avoid entraining fish. Remove paint or protective coatings in a manner that prevents any paints, paint flakes, primers, blasting abrasives, rust, solvents, degreasers or other waste materials from entering the watercourse. Use measures such as barges or shrouding to trap and prevent blasting abrasives, protective coatings, rust and grease from entering the watercourse. Contain paint flakes, abrasives and other waste materials for safe disposal. Store, mix and transfer paints and solvents on land and not on the bridge to prevent these materials from entering the watercourse in the event of a spill. Do not clean equipment in the watercourse or where the wash-water can enter the watercourse. Limit the removal of materials to that which is necessary to protect piers and abutments. When carrying out structural repairs and reinforcements, use barges or shrouding to trap/ prevent concrete and other bridge materials from entering the watercourse. If rip-rap reinforcement or armouring is required to stabilize eroding areas around abutments, place large clean, angular rocks into the eroding area at a similar slope as the stream bank to maintain a uniform bank slope and natural stream alignment. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks.



Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills.

For Government Purposes New and Replacement Bridges: Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Clear Span Bridges: Applications for single/clear span bridges that do not encroach inside the shoulder (bank) of the watercourse or wetland require a Regulatory Review. Depending on the scope of the project the application may also require Advisory Review. Maintenance: Applications for these activities require Regulatory Review. Removal of Bridges: Applications for the removal of bridges that do not encroach inside the shoulder (bank) of the watercourse or wetland require a Regulatory Review. Depending on the scope of the project the application may also require Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.6 BYPASS PONDS Page 1 of 4


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to construct a reservoir of water connected to a watercourse with suitable water quality and volume to meet the needs of the intended use.

Definition A by-pass pond is connected to a watercourse by an inlet and an outlet pipe so as to be supplied with water for recreation, irrigation, fire fighting, fish rearing, or other purposes. The intended purpose of “Section 3.6 - By-pass Ponds” is not for sediment collection, this activity can be found in “Section 3.10 - Dredging”.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To maintain adequate quantity and

quality of water in the watercourse for the protection of aquatic habitat and provision of fish passage.

• To prevent the impact of construction

from degrading aquatic habitat and water quality.

Planning Considerations Construction of by-pass ponds is often permitted adjacent to a watercourse. However, the by-pass pond and any excavated earthen material as a result of pond construction, must be located outside of the riparian buffer zone. Excavating a pond in the bed of a watercourse has the potential to generate and introduce excessive quantities of silt and other sediments in the watercourse. The excavation of by-pass ponds in the bed of a watercourse is not permitted. Potential threats to water resources and aquatic habitat, as a result of this type of alteration, include: 1) Sedimentation of the watercourse due to

improper construction techniques or upland surface runoff which lead to degradation of water quality and fish

habitat. 2) Blockage of fish passage and

degradation of fish habitat as a result from diminished flows or volumes of water in the watercourse.

3) Contamination of the watercourse by

disease from organisms inhabiting the pond or pollutants which may discharge to the watercourse.

4) If the by-pass pond is being used for

aquaculture purposes, escape of the cultured fish into the wild must be prevented.

Proper site selection and carefully designed construction techniques will help to minimize damage to the adjoining watercourse. It is advisable to dig a number of test holes in the proposed pond basin to determine the nature of the underlying soils (i.e., permeability, presence of groundwater seeps, etc.) If a site with an impervious substrate is required, the selected site can be sealed by one of the following methods: 1. Compaction by heavy machinery is

possible provided the substrate consists of well graded soils.

2. Addition of clay blankets to cover the

entire pond area up to the normal high water mark. The blanket should consist of well graded, coarse grained material containing a minimum of 20% clay with minimum thickness of 30 centimetres.

3. Addition of bentonite is effective in soils

with a high percentage of coarse grained particles. Bentonite, a colloidal clay, fills tiny voids in the soil and swells up to 20 times its original volume when wet.

4. Waterproof linings such as thin films of

polyethylene or vinyl can be used to line the pond but must be carefully protected from mechanical damage.



Inlet and outlet structures must consist of screened pipes. Screens must be present to ensure that fish will not be exchanged between the pond and the watercourse which could lead to competition and the spread of disease. Screens must conform to the same specifications required for all water intake structures. (Refer to “Section 3.16 - Water Intake Structures”.) Ditches or trenches are not acceptable means of connecting the pond to the watercourse, because they can be a source of sediment and are difficult to screen. The by-pass pond overflow structure should include an outlet pipe. In addition, an emergency spillway should be constructed in the embankment to handle excess runoff and prevent the pond from overtopping during periods of high flow. Emergency spillways are often constructed as a ‘back up’ to the overflow pipe in the event of overtopping. These consist of shallow broad-crested weir excavated in the embankments of the pond discharging into a vegetated area away from the watercourse. The crest of the spillway must be lined with rip rap. Where possible, by-pass ponds should be located in an area such that the water supply can be augmented by groundwater springs or surface runoff to decrease demands from the watercourse. The area draining into the pond should not include

potential sources of contaminated water, such as septic tanks, barns, or waste disposal areas. During construction, sediment laden water will accumulate in the by-pass pond basin and must not be released into the watercourse. The “activation” of springs uncovered during construction should also be considered as large volumes of dirty water can arise in a short period. De-watering may be required during construction to reduce water volumes in the newly constructed basin. Maintenance flow requirements in the watercourse will be imposed for the water intake structure. This can be achieved by limiting the diameter or by installing the inlet pipe. (Refer to “Section 3.16 - Water Intake Structures”.) Applicants should bear in mind that once a by-pass pond has been created, it falls under the definition of a watercourse, and subsequent alterations within 10 metres of the pond will require a permit under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included:



1. drawings to scale of the plan, profile, and cross sectional views,

2. all dimensions including length, width,

depth of the pond, 3. distance from the watercourse, 4. detailed description of the inlet and

outlet structures, 5. description of the proposed construction

methods, 6. specifications of inlet and outlet screens,

and 7. intake and outflow pipe elevations

relative to the pond.

Other Government Agencies Involved 1) Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is


2) The following agencies will need to be

contacted if the plans include stocking the pond with fish:

a. An Introductions and Transfers Permit is required from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Introductions and Transfers Committee. The purpose of the permit is to mitigate against ecological, biological or genetic factors between the stocked fish and those naturally inhabiting the natural watercourse. If issued, this permit grants the authority to culture fish. Currently, operations include the culture of Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Atlantic Salmon, under prescribed conditions.

Applications for other species may be considered. Fisheries and Oceans Canada must be contacted before any fish are placed in the pond.

b. Environmental Assessment Section of the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry must be contacted with regards to water withdrawal, water quality of the discharge and the size of the operation.

Guidelines The site must be cleared of all vegetation, trees, roots, sod and loose topsoil and the spoil material disposed of where it cannot be returned to the watercourse. The by-pass pond should be designed with a surface area which is small relative to the water supply in the adjacent watercourse. The area draining into the by-pass pond must not include sources of pollution. The side slopes of the by-pass pond should be no steeper than two horizontal to one vertical. Standard techniques for sediment control, such as the use of silt fences, must be employed to prevent surface runoff from disturbed areas from introducing sediment directly into the watercourse.



The excavation of the by-pass pond must be carried out in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). The by-pass pond must be excavated prior to installing the inlet pipe(s). The banks of the watercourse must not be disturbed prior to the installation of the intake and outlet structures. Bank disturbance must be kept to a minimum during these installations and immediately stabilized. The ends of the inlet and outlet pipes adjoining the watercourse must be screened. The inlet and outlet pipes should be oriented in a downstream direction to minimize the chance of blockage. Rip rap must be placed around the ends of the inlet and outlet structures.

If the water is to be extracted from a by-pass pond (e.g., for irrigation purposes), the inlet should be closed during the extraction. When the inlet is re-opened, it should be done gradually to prevent rapid depletion of the flow in the watercourse and allow gradual refilling of the pond. Any discharge from the by-pass pond(s) should pass through a sediment filtration system before entering the watercourse. Immediately following construction, the embankments of the by-pass pond and any other exposed soil must be seeded and stabilized.

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.7 CULVERTS Page 1 of 12


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide a safe, sturdy, low maintenance and environmentally sound crossing structure with a waterway opening large enough to pass peak flows, provide fish passage and prevent debris jams. This activity also includes the removal of culverts. Definition A culvert is a covered structure which conveys the flow in a watercourse under a road or footpath whereby the top of the cover material is graded to form the travel surface. Closed-bottom culverts are round or rectangular conduits partially embedded in the watercourse with the sides and top encased in earth fill, designed to carry water under a travel surface. Open-bottom culverts are semi-circle, rectangular or elliptical corrugated metal, concrete, wooden or plastic arches founded on footings, with the sides and top encased in earth fill, designed to carry water under a travel surface. Culvert maintenance includes minor repairs to a culvert that do not change the invert. This would include replacing sections of the culvert or adding stabilization materials to protect the structure. Culvert lining is the re-establishment of continuity in a culvert following degradation of its structural integrity. This would include replacing the bottom of corroded culverts with concrete or other material and inserting sleeves (e.g., steel or plastic liners). This section does not include the removal of debris which is covered in “Section 3.4 - Beaver Dam Removal” or “Section 3.9 - De-brushing or Woody Debris Removal”. Environmental Protection Objectives • To maintain free, unobstructed fish

passage providing fish with migration

paths for spawning, rearing, feeding and over-wintering.


watercourse as a result of construction, installation or removal of the structure.

• To prevent erosion of the banks and

streambed scour as a result of installation, operation or removal of the structure.

Planning Considerations All crossings impact the environment to some degree; careful planning and design can minimize this impact. The culvert should be designed to avoid excessive ponding at the entrance which may cause property damage, accumulation of floating debris, culvert clogging, or detrimental upstream deposits of debris and alteration of fish habitat. Consideration should be given to the appropriate crossing structure for your site. Bridge type structures have less impact on aquatic habitat than culverts and are the preferred method for crossing a watercourse mainly because they maintain the natural bank/bed. Culverts are often used because they provide an efficient and economical means of crossing a watercourse. Several shapes of culverts are used including: circular, box, elliptical, and arch culvert. Box culverts are generally constructed of wood or concrete while the other types of culverts are most often made from steel, concrete, aluminum, fibreglass, and plastic. All culverts must be made of materials which are durable, weather resistant and strong enough to support the weight of the traffic which will be using the crossing. Single culverts are preferred over multiple culvert installations. Installation of culverts may result in the alteration of the natural streambed and the natural flow regime which have negative impacts on aquatic habitat. The importance of properly sizing the culvert cannot be overemphasized. An undersized culvert results in increased water velocity within the structure, providing a barrier to fish passage



and scouring at the outlet. An oversized culvert may result in decreased water depth within the structure which may also act as a barrier to fish migration. If properly designed, installed, and maintained at suitable locations, the resulting impact on aquatic habitat or threat to the environment posed by a culvert can be minimal. Any site where the banks are unstable or eroding, or the watercourse meanders, should be avoided. Open-bottom culvert design which retains the natural features of the watercourse, such as width and slope, provide better protection for aquatic habitat than closed-bottom culverts. Due to the various footing support structures (i.e. plates, pads, timbers) available for use under a variety of field conditions, these structures can be installed quickly and generally do not infringe on the natural channel. The capacity for culverts should be large enough to pass a peak flow or flood. Peak flow is influenced by drainage area, rainfall intensity, type of soil, ground cover and land use. Generally, a culvert designed for a 100 year return period flow provides adequate capacity. When an application for a watercourse crossing is reviewed by the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, a design flow is calculated which represents the actual peak flow expected at the location of the crossing. The design flow is based on the drainage area upstream of the crossing site with consideration given to factors such as precipitation and physiography. The waterway opening proposed in the application must accommodate the design flow. In some circumstances, historic data from hydrometric stations located throughout the province is used to estimate the peak flow.

Fish Passage Considerations Fish passage must be taken into account at all times during the installation of the culvert. Special measures to provide for fish passage through the crossing once the structure has been installed, such as fish

baffles or resting pools, may be required. In the case of a sloping bedrock bottom, an arch culvert on concrete footings may require additional fish passage measures.

A designed energy dissipation pool (plunge pool) may be a requirement in the proper construction of a closed-bottom culvert. The height of the tailwater must be sufficient to back flood water into the culvert opening. The width of the plunge pool should be two (2) times the diameter of the culvert opening; the length of the plunge pool should be three (3) times the diameter of the culvert opening and the depth should be a minimum of one metre. The invert of a culvert must be buried a minimum of 0.2D (0.2 times the diameter of the culvert) to a maximum of 0.45m into the bed of the watercourse. This will facilitate the deposition of a layer of natural substrate and re-establish the natural habitat. The ability of a fish to pass through a culvert is limited by the entrance conditions, water depth and velocity of flow, culvert length and slope and fish swimming ability. Fish swimming ability will vary depending on species, size, water quality, and hydraulic conditions. Fish migration may be obstructed if:



• a culvert is installed above the level of the natural streambed;

• scour lowers the streambed at the outlet

of the culvert creating a waterfall effect (i.e., the resulting vertical drop could prevent fish from entering the culvert at the outlet);

• the water depth within the culvert is

insufficient to allow fish passage through the structure; or

• the culvert is undersized or installed at

an incorrect slope causing excessive water velocity (i.e., the water velocity exceeds the capability of the fish to pass through a culvert).

Some instances where fish passage provisions (e.g., baffles) may be omitted from culvert installations include: 1. An open bottom culvert with footings

located outside the stream bank. The

original bed of the river and the banks are not to be disturbed at all by the construction, including the construction of the footings, the temporary diversion or any other activities.

2. Culverts less than 20 metres in length,

where the streambed slope gradient is less than 0.5 percent, and the downstream end is set 0.2D below streambed.

The streambed slope gradient is calculated using three simple measurements. First, on the downstream end of the culvert, the elevation of the streambed is taken at the downstream riffle (located approximately three times the culvert diameter downstream of the culvert outlet). This elevation is subtracted from the elevation of the streambed taken at the first riffle upstream of the culvert. The resulting value is divided by the distance (in metres) between these two upstream and downstream culvert elevations. The invert of the upstream and downstream ends of the culvert structure must be set 0.2 times the diameter of the culvert. This allows for the natural infilling of the invert of the culvert to help simulate a natural streambed for utilization by fish. This is to ensure that the water depth inside the culvert will be at least equal to that in the watercourse during low flow conditions. The downstream riffle is the first riffle located at least three times the culvert diameter downstream. The requirement for baffles in closed-bottom culverts is based on stream slope and culvert slope. Typically, baffles are required if the stream slope exceeds 0.5 percent and the culvert is greater than 1.2 meters in diameter. Baffles require a notch to pass water during low flow periods to provide flow conditions that will permit fish passage. The notch size and drop can be determined using the following table:



The baffle furthest downstream is usually placed a minimum of 0.5 metres and a maximum of 1.25 metres from the downstream end of the structure. The top of this baffle is also to be at the same elevation at the outlet control point (riffle used to determine stream slope at 3D downstream or the outlet of the plunge pool if constructed). The upstream invert of the culvert can be at the same elevation as the upstream elevation control (riffle) or embedded up to 0.2D (max. 0.45m).

Examples of Baffle Spacing

Culvert slope (%)

Spacing I (m) 15cm

drops

Spacing I (m) 20cm

drops 2 7.5 10.0 3 5.0 6.7 4 3.8 5.0 5 3.0 4.0 6 2.5 3.3 7 2.1 2.9 8 1.9 2.5 9 1.7 2.2

Notch size and maximum drop between baffles for Prince Edward Island

Watershed size Notch width (z)cm

Notch depth (x)cm

Baffle height (b)cm

Max. drop between baffles

(Δh)cm Less than 2.5 km2 20 20 50 15 2.5 to 4 km2 30 20 50 15 4 to 6 km2 30 25 50 20 6 to 10 km2 50 25 50 20 10 to 15 km2 60 25 50 20 15 to 20 km2 75 25 50 20



Manipulation of watercourses for the purposes of restoring or enhancing fish passage requires careful and thorough planning. Understanding of the watercourse dynamics is required to ensure that an activity does not negatively impact fish

habitat, watercourse hydraulics and property. There are a number of existing culverts which do not provide fish passage (i.e., hanging culverts) and are not likely to be



replaced because of location or size. In these cases, site specific measures may be attempted to rectify the situation. These measures may include the installation of stone pools or low head dams to increase the water level at the outlet of the culvert. These options should only be installed and maintained until such time as the existing culvert can be replaced and the fish passage issues resolved. Timing of Activities To minimize environmental impacts caused by erosion and sedimentation the length of the construction period must be kept to a minimum and planned so as not to coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish and shellfish, such as spawning, spatfall and egg incubation times. There will be variation in specific conditions for different areas throughout the province depending on the number and species of fish/shellfish involved. Generally, the construction period is during the low flow period, between June 1st and September 30th, every year. The reasons for this are listed below: 1. There will be less impact on fish

activities during this time frame. 2. It is easier to isolate low flows in order to

work in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). Diverting high flows could lead to flooding and the introduction of sediment into the watercourse.

3. There will be suitable weather after this

period to establish vegetation on the disturbed portions of the construction site.

In close proximity to marine and estuarine environments, special consideration must also be given to shellfish (commercial, aquaculture and recreational) areas and the timing of construction must take into account sensitive characteristics of the resource (e.g., spawning season), which may require adjustments to timing of the project or aggressive mitigation to address concerns.

Sediment Control Considerations All in-stream work should be done in isolation of stream flow (in the dry) to avoid introducing sediment into the watercourse. Use of cofferdams, temporary diversions, or pumping the flow around the site are techniques used to isolate the work area from the flowing water thereby preventing sedimentation of the watercourse during the entire construction phase.

Excessive quantities of sediment entering the watercourse can severely impact the aquatic environment. Fine particles settling on the bed of the watercourse can smother aquatic organisms and destroy fish spawning and rearing habitat.



Construction plans must take into account sediment control during all phases of the alteration and continue until all disturbed ground has been permanently stabilized to ensure that suspended soil particles in surface runoff water are trapped before being discharged into the aquatic environment. Leaving as much natural vegetation as possible, when clearing the site for the culvert installation, will dramatically reduce the amount of suspended sediment in surface runoff. In order to prevent culvert failure (e.g., washout) it is important to stabilize the inlet and outlet with a clean, non-erodible material. Stabilization of the crossing may be accomplished with the placement of rip-rap at both ends of the structure immediately upon completion of the installation. Water Control Measures Water control measures such as temporary diversions, sediment control ponds, off-take structures and filtration areas are essential tools in controlling surface water flow to minimize impacts on construction sites. Generally, work activities will be carried out in isolation from the stream flow (in the dry).

Road Design Considerations Route selection for access roads should be designed to minimize the number of watercourse crossings. Roads are not to be constructed parallel to the watercourse within a Forested Riparian Zone. The length

of all watercourse crossings should also be minimized by planning to construct them at right angles to the watercourse. Clearing and grubbing for the road right of way should be kept to a minimum as vegetation acts as a natural filter, keeping fine particles from entering the watercourse. Proper drainage must be maintained by using roadside ditches and cross drainage culverts to prevent excess surface water from washing across the road and introducing sediment into the watercourse. If the slope of the roadside ditch is steep, the sediment laden water should be routed through a settling pond or sediment trap to remove particles before the water enters the watercourse.

Cross drainage culverts should be placed across the road to dissipate excess runoff flows which have been channelized by the road construction. A recommended spacing for cross drainage culverts is as follows:

• 90 metres on gentle slopes (1% to 2%)

• 45 metres on moderate slopes (3%

to 9%) • 30 metres or less on steep slopes

(≥10%) The minimum acceptable diameter for a cross drainage culvert is 300 millimetres (12 inches). The cross drainage culverts should be installed at a 30 degree angle downslope



and they should slope approximately four percent (4%).

Off-take ditches should be directed towards a vegetated area to filter out the sediment before it enters the watercourse. If a road is being constructed adjacent to a watercourse or wetland, sediment barriers should be placed between the roadway and the watercourse/wetland to intercept runoff. Many types of sediment barriers are available for use such as: silt fences, hay/straw bales, mulch, or brush barriers. Sediment barriers should be placed on (and at the base of) exposed upland surfaces, fill slopes, or any surface that might discharge sediment into the watercourse or wetland.

Culvert Removal The removal of culverts, similar to the installation of these structures, must take into account the timing of activities, water control measures, sediment control considerations and limiting the area of disturbance. When removing a failed or collapsed culvert that has trapped and accumulated sediment, place sediment control devices in the watercourse before beginning the alteration. This will intercept sediment before it moves downstream and protect aquatic habitats. To the extent possible, all work should be conducted in isolation of water flow (in the dry). Two possible options to allow this are: • divert the streamflow through a

temporary, stabilized channel (e.g., plastic lined, culvert). The new channel must be designed (length, slope, etc.) to accommodate flows and prevent the movement of fines upstream of the obstruction.

• cofferdam the streamflow and pump the

water around the site.



Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. a sketch showing the dimensions of

culvert shape, length, slope, diameter and alignment;

2. a full project description including

construction timing, sequence of events, methods and materials;

3. a profile of the bed of the watercourse of

the crossing site extending five culvert diameters upstream and downstream provided no permanent channel re-alignment will occur. The requirement does not apply to open-bottom culverts.

4. the elevation of the watercourse bed in

relation to the invert of the culvert. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Application Review Process This category is broken into two risk levels – low risk and high risk levels - based on the timing and techniques utilized. Both levels of risk require the applicant to submit an application to the permitting agency. However, the review for high risk activities will be more complex and require review by other government agencies. In order to classify as a low risk activity the culvert must meet the following requirements: 1) Closed-bottom round culverts equal to

or less than 1.2 m (48 inches) in diameter;

2) Closed-bottom box culverts with an

opening less that 2.25m2; 3) Slope of the stream bed at the proposed

culvert location is less than 0.5 percent; 4) Culvert length less than 20 metres; 5) Minimal alteration to the stream channel;

6) Shellfish habitat or resources are not in

close proximity to the proposed work site;

7) Structure is installed, maintained or

removed during the June 1 to September 30th period; and

8) All activities, installation, maintenance,

and removal, are conducted in isolation of flowing water (in the dry).

A high risk activity may occur if one or more of the aforementioned items could not be met (e.g., slope of the streambed at the proposed culvert location is greater than 0.5 percent). High risk means that there is an increased potential of causing a harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat (HADD). Other Government Agencies Involved 1. The approval of the Transport Canada,

Navigable Waters Protection Program which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, must be obtained when any structure is to be placed in or across navigable waters.


responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada.

a. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

b. If the slope of the streambed at the proposed culvert location is greater than 0.5 percent, a detailed plan for fish passage must be provided to Fisheries and Oceans Canada prior to construction.



Guidelines The stream banks and foundation must be solid and capable of supporting the structure and the loads traveling over them. A soft foundation should be replaced with clean, granular material to prevent sagging of the culvert. Grubbing cannot be carried out within the Forested Riparian Zone and/or within 10 metres of the watercourse or wetland except where necessary to remove stumps under the road bed and then not until construction of the crossing is ready to begin. The width of the grubbed area may be no greater than the total width of the roadway, fill embankments and ditches. Prior to the culvert installation, sediment control works must be installed to prevent sedimentation of the watercourse and be maintained, as required, until a vegetative cover is established. Sediment barriers, such as silt fences or hay bales, must be placed along the toe of the slope of the fill material used to construct the approaches to the structures. (See section 2.5 on Potential Environmental Impacts.) All exposed soil must be seeded and/or stabilized immediately following completion of activities. Vegetate all disturbed bank and riparian areas to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate. If there is insufficient time (at least four weeks) in the growing season remaining for the seeds to germinate, the site should be stabilized (e.g., cover exposed areas with erosion control blankets to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion) and vegetated the following spring. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall) if the work is to be carried out in the immediate vicinity. The in-stream work should be carried out in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). All creosote treated timbers must be air dried for a minimum of twelve months before being placed in the watercourse or wetland.

Route selection for access roads should be designed to minimize the number of watercourse crossings. Roads are not to be constructed parallel to the watercourse within a Forested Riparian Zone. The length of all watercourse crossings should be minimized by constructing them at right angles to the watercourse. Stream crossing widths should be kept to a minimum. Materials used in the erosion control activities must be clean, durable, non-toxic material. The culverts must be long enough to provide an embankment slope that can be stabilized with rock, riprap or other non-erodible material. Rip-rap must be placed at both ends of the culvert. It is recommended that rip-rap be placed to an elevation of at least one half of the culvert diameter above the top of the structure and a minimum of one culvert diameter on each side of the structure immediately upon completion of the installation. The invert of the upstream and downstream ends of the culvert structure must be set 0.2 times the diameter of the culvert below the upstream and downstream riffle, respectively. This is to ensure that the water depth inside the culvert will be at least equal to that in the watercourse or wetland during low flow conditions. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse or adjacent wetland to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills.



If installing an open-bottom culvert, it should be placed so that there are no voids between the ground and the footings. As required, fabric should be draped over areas where undermining is a concern. If installing an open-bottom culvert, it should be installed over a reach of stream channel that is relatively straight and well defined.

If installing an open-bottom culvert, it must be placed on footings. These structures may be concrete, wood that is rot resistant such as hemlock and tamarack, steel, rigid plastic or other materials which provide adequate support for the structure. A gravel or rock pad should be prepared to fill in low areas and ensure uniform footing support.



For replacement of closed-bottom culverts with open-bottom culverts, rock may be used to enhance or re-construct the existing channel, to ensure stability in the channel, and to create fish habitat. The rock will not contain clay or fines that may be detrimental to the aquatic life present in the watercourse. For culvert removal, the flow must be pumped around the site or diverted through a temporary, stabilized channel while the culvert is being removed. The banks must be completely stabilized to prevent sedimentation into the watercourse. When removing a culvert, the watercourse must be restored to the original cross section. The removal and restoration must be limited to the minimum work area necessary.

For Government Purposes Low Risk Category: All applications meeting the Low Risk conditions will require a Regulatory review. High Risk Category: All applications that do not meet the Low Risk Category criteria require a Regulatory and Advisory review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.8 DAMS AND IMPOUNDMENTS Page 1 of 7


Purpose This section covers:

• maintenance or minor repair of dam components,

• water level management, • major repair or redesign of dam

components or water control structures,

• dredging of an impoundment, and • decommissioning of a dam or water

control structure and impoundment. Generally, the creation of new dams and impoundments are not permitted on Prince Edward Island. Definition Maintenance or Minor Repair – Routine operation including minor repairs such as the hand removal of debris, replacement of railings, gratings, minor repairs to fishway and accessories not related to the water control structure or replacement of damaged stop logs. These activities do not require a permit/review. Water Level Management – All activities related to the establishment and maintenance of the appropriate, normal operating levels of the impoundment. It also includes the de-watering and re-flooding of the impoundment when carrying out physical works at the site. These activities require a permit/review. Major Repairs and/or Redesign – All repairs including any work (other than routine maintenance) on the water control structure, reconstruction of a severely damaged dam and washed out impoundment, a change in the elevation of the spillway or the water control structure, removal of debris with heavy equipment, or the replacement and reconfiguration of the fishway. Depending on the type of repair proposed, activities may require water level management consideration. Major repair and/or redesign activities require a permit/review. Dredging of an Impoundment – Activities related to the removal of accumulated sediments in the impounded area by

mechanical means. Dredging activities may require water level management consideration. These activities require a permit/review. Decommissioning – Activities related to the demolition of existing water control structures and removal or deactivation of existing impoundments, thereby restoring pre-managed conditions. These activities require an environmental impact assessment in addition to the permit/review process. Environmental Protection Objectives • To ensure adequate fish passage

(where required). • To minimize upstream and downstream

impacts on the fisheries and aquaculture resources and other riparian/wildlife habitat.

• To minimize sedimentation of the

watercourse downstream of the impoundment.

• To provide flexibility in water level

management. • To ensure maintenance flow is provided

downstream of the structure. • To minimize sedimentation as a result of

replacement, water level management, maintenance or repair.

• To maintain or enhance water quality

upstream and downstream of the structure.

Planning Considerations Prior to undertaking dam or impoundment activities, consideration must be given to the impact on fisheries, aquaculture and wildlife. The need for passage for fish species currently moving through the site or impacted by the activities must be the primary consideration.



Water control structures may result in changes in flood water velocity, flood stage, stream bank erosion, and sediment deposition which may affect other riparian and flood plain landowners. A poorly maintained dam carries the potential for considerable damage such as flooding, severe erosion, habitat destruction, loss of property and/or human lives. Generally, applications for all of the activities except maintenance require interdepartmental consultation and detailed project review because of the significant effect most dams and water control structures have on the natural environment. In addition to the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines, a review of other applicable guidelines (e.g., Guidelines Respecting the Management, Maintenance and Construction of Impounded Wetlands on Prince Edward Island) may be required. Each site is unique and will require a site specific review to determine the type of activities that are best suited to the location. The following proposed activities are likely to require an environmental assessment (provincial and/or federal): 1. Permanently change the elevation of the

dam, spillway or water control structure, 2. Seasonal, long term change to the

elevation of the dam, spillway or water control structure,

3. Major modifications to the water control

structure (e.g., change in location of structure, bottom versus surface drawdown facility),

4. The construction of a new drawdown

facility, installation of a new fishway (where none previously existed),

5. Incorporation of a hydro electric facility,

aquaculture operation or mill (i.e., saw, grist),

6. Construction of a new impoundment, 7. De-watering of an impoundment, and/or 8. Decommissioning of an impoundment.

Redesigning a water control structure requires consideration of technical matters such as the magnitude and duration of flooding, ice and water forces on the structure, maintenance flow and fish passage requirements. Impoundments should allow for the migration of fish. If a fishway does not already exist, the provision of fish passage should be considered when carrying out major changes to (or redesign of) the water control structure. Water control structures may exist in isolation or as a component of a dam. Repair and modification activities may include work on the following: 1. Water Release Structures Water release structures have the capacity to maintain the water control structure at a safe level and to discharge design floods without damage to the dam and associated structures. Nearly all water release structures are based on one of the following or combinations thereof: spillway, gates and orifice; trough and chute, or siphon. An overflow spillway may have a crest formed to fit the shape that overflowing water would take. 2. Flow Energy Dissipaters Plunge pools and stilling basins are means of dissipating the energy of falling water over a dam or other structure. These structures must be carefully designed to prevent undercutting which affects stability of the energy dissipater and possibly the dam. Therefore, all flow energy dissipaters downstream of water release structures must be designed by a Professional Engineer with experience in hydro-technical design. 3. Gates and Valves Outlet gates and valves serve to control flow from a water control structure created by a dam. A gate is a closure device in which a barrier is moved across the path of flow to control the flow and elevation of water. Gates and valves can also be classed as regulating or guard. Regulating gates and valves operate under a full range of flow and pressure conditions. Guard gates and valves usually function as a secondary device for shutting off the flow of water, should a primary device become inoperative. All



gates and valves on major structures must be designed by a Professional Engineer. 4. Stoplogs Stoplogs are typically installed and removed during fluctuating flow conditions taking into consideration maintenance flow under a water level management regime. Design criteria include the number of stoplogs to be installed, the on-site storage of stoplogs (so that they are available when needed), and the flow criteria on which addition or removal will be based. 5. Fishways Fishways are a means of passing fish around an obstacle. Important considerations in the design of these structures include site conditions, the behaviour and swimming abilities of the fish to be passed, flow conditions during each month of fish migration, and the hydraulic characteristics of the various types of fishways. Plans for fishway modifications must be provided to Fisheries and Oceans Canada for review before the activity is undertaken.

6. Other Regulating Structures For the purpose of the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Program, regulating structures other than those mentioned above are also considered under the category of water control structures. Over time, large quantities of sediment accumulate in the impoundment due to land use practices in the watershed upstream of the impoundment. Acknowledgment of these practices and the management of this sediment is a primary consideration when undertaking repairs, redesign or decommissioning. The frequency of sediment accumulation and volume of material in the impoundment must be considered when planning management or maintenance options. A large volume of material and frequency of sediment accumulation may eliminate any practical options for impoundment management and the best option for management may be no intervention.



The release of sediment downstream can result in the destabilization of the watercourse, degradation of aquatic and wildlife habitat, as well as diminishing water quality. Proper attention and planning must ensure that sediment is not released downstream of the impoundment. The removal of a dam, water control structure or impoundment should only be carried out when the benefits of the removal exceed the cumulative effects of the associated environmental impacts. Planning for this type of alteration must not only involve choice of machinery and timing but also an analysis of the positive and negative effects of the removal of the structure on the environment and community. Prior to the removal of any dam, water control structure or impoundment, public consultation may be required. Site restoration work upstream and downstream of the obstruction should be considered as part of the planning considerations. Removing major obstructions such as dams, water control structures or impoundments has the potential for significant impact on the aquatic habitat. The removal of a dam, for example, could have severe effects downstream and upstream if the water is not released gradually. The sudden release of water and accumulated sediments could have long term impacts including the destruction of banks of watercourses and property, destruction of wildlife/aquatic habitat or endangerment of human life. This type of alteration can vary greatly depending on the size and type of obstruction. Timing of the activity should respect aquatic and wildlife species. Each project of this nature will be subjected to intensive fish/shellfish habitat protection measures. Application Requirements 1) Water Level Management, Repair,

Replacement or Maintenance of Dams or Water Control Structures - In

addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included:

a) a plan, profile, and cross sectional

drawing of the dam including the water control structure and fish passage facilities;

b) a full description of the proposed

methods including a water and sediment control plan;

c) an explanation of the design

approach, d) information on the design flows

(and, where appropriate, water levels),

e) statements on the intended range of

operating conditions (and the likely consequences of operating outside that range), and

f) statements on the effect of flow

regulation and diversion on high, medium and low flow conditions in the watercourse.

Applications for major repairs on dams may also be required to include:

a) plans designed and stamped by a person licensed to practice as a Professional Engineer pursuant to the Engineering Profession Act and experienced in hydrotechnical design;

b) specifications on the materials and

workmanship;

c) a description of the normal operation of the dam noting the maximum drawdown and normal operating level of the water control structure.

2) Repair or Dredging of Existing

Impoundments - In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following documents must be included:



a) Purpose of the proposed activities

(why is it being undertaken, potential outcomes/benefits);

b) Physical location of impoundment

(pond) in the watershed; c) Ownership of the impoundment and

surrounding area; d) The proposed timing and sequence

of events for the intended activity; e) Mitigation proposed for potential

negative impacts; f) Dimensions of the impoundment

basin and existing stream channel.

The following additional information may be required with the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Application for the following activities:

Major Repairs or Redesign of Impoundments – a) Stamped, engineering drawings

clearly indicating the dimensions of structures to be reconstructed or repaired showing the capacity to handle peak flows and to provide full draw down and adequate fish passage (where deemed necessary),

b) Current volume of water and

sediment (if applicable) in the impoundment,

c) A sediment management plan,

d) A list of users of the impoundment

(e.g., trappers, hunters, anglers, irrigation users, eco-tourism, fire departments) and seasonality of use,

e) A list of types of fisheries and

aquaculture facilities potentially impacted,

f) Important downstream habitat including aquatic habitat or wetlands,

g) Rescue plan for stranded wildlife

and aquatic species, if dewatering,

h) The drawdown procedure (where applicable) for the impoundment, including time of year to occur and provisions for fish passage,

i) Storage area for heavy equipment

and refueling location,

j) Description of the proposed re-flooding procedure (if applicable), including timing and provisions for fish passage,

k) A water level management plan for

fish passage and wetland associated with the impoundment,

l) A description of any proposed

impacts to nearby civil work or infrastructure (i.e., utilities, water, sewer).

Dredging of Impoundments – Any application for dredging of impoundments must provide a rationale for the project and must include details regarding the existing physical conditions of the impoundment, the work to be proposed, the expected outcome and long term benefits of the project. Additional information required may include: a. A plan, profile and cross sectional

drawing of the area to be dredged, clearly indicating the current volume/depth of sediment in the impoundment, amount of material to be excavated, and the location of the disposal area;

b. Proposed excavation method and equipment requirements,

c. A detailed chemical analysis to determine the sediment composition and the presence of any potential contaminants,

d. The proposed timing and sequence of events for sediment removal,



e. A description of any proposed impacts to nearby civil work or infrastructure (i.e., utilities, water, sewer),

f. Storage area for heavy equipment and refueling location,

g. Description of proposed sediment containment and erosion prevention measures,

h. Description of how the dredged material and the disturbed site will be stabilized,

i. Description of the long term mitigation measures in place to control siltation (e.g., sediment traps).

3) Decommissioning of Dams, Water Control Structures or Impoundments These activities are subject to an environmental assessment and the scope of the environmental assessment will reflect the site specific requirements determined in consultation with regulatory authorities.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1) If activities will generate impacts on

roads and bridges, or if transport is required (e.g., dredged spoils) on public roadways, the Prince Edward Island Department of Transportation & Public Works and local municipalities must be contacted regarding weight restrictions, highway safety issues, etc.

2) Under the Fisheries Act, Fisheries and

Oceans Canada (DFO): a) Is responsible for protecting fish and

fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Authorization, if required,

must be obtained before the activity can occur.

b) Must review any modifications to fish passage facilities before the activity can occur.

3) The disposal of contaminated dredged

sediments on land must receive a Land Disposal Permit from the Pollution Prevention Division of the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. This permit is required in every case to prevent ground and surface water contamination, nuisance odours, as well as, public health and safety issues.

4) Unless ownership rights were granted,

lands below the normal high water mark are owned by the Province of PEI. To verify land ownership rights, the original deeds should be checked with the Taxation and Land Registry Division of the Prince Edward Island Department of Provincial Treasury.

Guidelines Reconstruction or repair will incorporate adequate fish passage (where deemed necessary). Where it is determined that fish passage is required, facilities must be constructed to adequately provide for the passage of species presently moving through the site, or which could be reasonably expected to do so. Reconstruction or repairs will ensure that the control structure is capable of handling anticipated peak flows and of providing full draw down of the associated impoundment. Monitor for fish trapped or stranded during drawdown and be prepared to relocate them to the main watercourse. Be prepared to assist any stranded wildlife. All exposed soil must be seeded and/or stabilized immediately following completion of activities. Vegetate all disturbed bank and riparian areas to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate. If there is insufficient time (at least four weeks) in the growing season remaining for the seeds to germinate, the site should be stabilized



(e.g., cover exposed areas with erosion control blankets to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion) and vegetated the following spring. The maintenance flow specified in the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Permit, Conditions of Approval must be maintained in the watercourse or wetland downstream of the structure at all times. Debris generated during the project must be prevented from entering the watercourse and disposed of in a provincially approved manner. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep emergency spill kit on site in case of fluid leaks or spills from machinery. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. No washing of tools, concrete forms or machinery may take place in or adjacent to the watercourse.

Decommissioning of Dams, Water Control Structures or Impoundments The removal of dams, water control structures such as fishways and weirs, and other hydraulic structures which impound water are major undertakings. As such the construction techniques and guidelines for these alterations will be determined according to the conditions specific to each site.

For Government Purposes Replacement, Water Level Management, Maintenance or Repair of Dams or Water Control Structures - Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Maintenance or minor repairs do not require a permit/review. Repair or Dredging of Existing Impoundments - Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Decommissioning of Dams, Water Control Structures or Impoundments – Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.9 DE-BRUSHING OR WOODY DEBRIS REMOVAL Page 1 of 2


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to remove woody material from a watercourse which has caused or may lead to blockage, disruption of fish passage and habitat, or flooding. Definition De-brushing or woody debris removal is the removal of natural material (living or non-living) from the watercourse. Examples of woody debris include: branches, logs, shrubs (e.g., alder) or fallen trees. This section does not include submerged, floating or emergent vegetation all of which are located in “Section 3.1 - Aquatic Vegetation Control”. Beaver dams are not considered to be debris. Beaver dam issues can be found in “Section 3.4 - Beaver Dam Removal”. Environmental Protection Objectives • To restore fish passage. • To protect the existing aquatic habitat by

retaining adequate instream cover. • To prevent flooding of adjacent property

and infrastructure. • To minimize disturbance/degradation to

the bed, banks, or aquatic habitat. • To encourage the movement of stream

flow by removal of impediments to flow.

Planning Considerations Removing debris that has remained in the stream for a long period of time may cause adverse impacts to fish habitat and produce downstream flooding. A stream survey will assist managers in developing a plan for debris removal while ensuring measures are provided to prevent adverse downstream impacts. Instream debris removal projects (unless they are limited in scope, < 100 metres) should be preceded by an assessment of the stream to determine the extent of the problem. Debris removal activities should be carried out in conjunction with other methods detailed in “Section 3.18 - Watercourse Habitat Improvement Works” to avoid impacting downstream water quality as well as aquatic and wildlife habitat. An excessive amount of woody debris has the potential to be harmful because it may:

• become a barrier to fish migration; • cause channel braiding which leads

to decreased flow, water depth or velocity which in turn becomes a barrier to fish passage;

• cause upstream flooding; and/or • trap silt and cover the gravel/cobble

substrate required for aquatic life processes.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.9 DE-BRUSHING OR WOODY DEBRIS REMOVAL Page 2 of 2


However, not all logs or tree root systems in a watercourse need to be removed. Often logs and roots become sheltering areas for trout and other species of fish. Alders or small trees growing on the banks of the watercourse augment natural fish cover, contribute to food input from terrestrial insects, and control erosion. Careful consideration should be given to when and where these shrubs should be removed. If the debris has remained in the watercourse for a long period of time, it may have become so deeply embedded that removing it would cause more damage than leaving it in place. Disturbing firmly embedded logs, branches, or other debris not only releases sediment into the water but may disrupt the aquatic habitat. Debris which has been damming the flow of a watercourse may also cause flooding downstream if removed. Consideration should be given to the consequences of removing trees which are securely rooted to the banks of a watercourse. These root systems may be protecting the bank from natural erosion. When coniferous trees (e.g., white spruce) have fallen across a watercourse, the limbs should only be removed from the underside of the tree for the following reasons: • fish passage is restored, • the potential for further debris

accumulation is lessened, • adequate instream cover is maintained,

and • the fallen tree acts as a travel corridor

for wildlife. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. a description of the existing conditions

and historical work carried out; 2. a description of sediment containment

plans;

3. a description of the debris to be removed and for what purpose (e.g., stream meander, fish habitat reconstruction); and

4. a full description of the proposed

removal methods. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Guidelines Obtain landowner permission before carrying out the activity. Mitigation measures to prevent or minimize impacts (e.g., collection of downstream sediments) need to be in place prior to carrying out the activity. It is important that as little of the forest canopy as possible be removed. All debris that is removed should be disposed of where it will not be washed back into the watercourse by high flows. No heavy equipment is allowed to carry out these activities. Work must be carried out with hand operated equipment such as chainsaws, lopping shears or bucksaws. Wash, refuel and service chainsaws and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. If chainsaws are to be used for instream woody debris removal, a bio-degradable chain oil must be used. When coniferous trees (e.g., white spruce) have fallen across a watercourse, the limbs should only be removed from the underside of the tree.

For Government Purposes Applications for these activities require Regulatory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.10 DREDGING Page 1 of 5


Purpose The purpose of dredging may include the: 1) Deepening of channels, trenches,

harbours, or inlets for use by boats; 2) Removal of unsuitable material at

proposed locations for supporting structures such as wharves, piers, abutments, bridges, causeways, etc.;

3) The excavation of unwanted or polluted

materials such as contaminated sediments;

4) Maintenance of existing instream

sediment basins or silt traps. Generally, the installation of new instream sediment basins is not permitted on Prince Edward Island. Definition Dredging is the excavation of material from the bed of a watercourse or wetland by mechanical means.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize the impact of the dredging

operation on aquatic habitats. • To minimize sedimentation of

downstream watercourses or wetlands. • To prevent the dispersal of potentially

contaminated sediment during dredging activities.

• To avoid disruption of fisheries and

aquaculture operations. • To prevent disturbance of coastal

colonial nesting birds feeding and nesting areas (e.g., piping plovers).

Planning Considerations The possible negative consequences of a poorly planned dredging operation can be significant. These operations have the potential to alter and/or destroy fish and fish habitat, water quality and private property. Current aquatic resources and usage, threatened, endangered or species of concern in the area, and the proximity to water intake pipes, must be considered when planning dredging activities. The selection of the appropriate dredging equipment to be used is determined by the following factors: access, physical characteristics of sediments, quantities to be dredged, seasonal considerations, contamination level of sediments, disposal method and location. Dredging equipment commonly used can be divided into two different types: 1) Mechanical dredging equipment

excavates the material intact, with some form of mechanically maneuvered bucket, depositing it onto a barge, scow, truck or a land based containment site. Mechanical dredges are generally used to remove sediment material or woody debris.



This equipment can be operated from restricted and/or shallow areas, a barge, the shore or wharf/pier. Examples of mechanical dredges include: the clamshell, dragline and hydraulic hoe dredges.

2) Suction or Hydraulic dredges are

characterized by the entrainment and transport of bed material as a slurry of water and sediment in a high velocity water stream. The dredged material is pumped through a floating pipeline to a suitable disposal site. Suction/hydraulic dredges are able to pump mud, clay, fine silt, and gravel from shallow and deep marine waterways. They are generally used for larger scale projects.

Diminished water quality can interfere with the necessary functions of aquatic species, such as migration, feeding and respiration, and if concentrated and/or prolonged can be lethal. Every dredging proposal is unique, and the possible impacts must be carefully considered at the design stage taking into account the potential for:

• Disruption of the benthic habitats

caused by excavation or burial can result in a direct loss of aquatic habitat. Organisms may also become entrapped by the dredging equipment or buried during the operation.

• Turbidity and sedimentation at the

dredging site, during transportation to the disposal site, or at the disposal site. Increased levels of suspended sediment can interfere with the necessary functions of aquatic species, such as migration, spawning, growth and feeding, and can be lethal, if concentrated.

• Disturbance and exposure of anoxic

sediments which can deplete oxygen from the surrounding waters. The chemical oxidation of metals and other inorganic compounds uses dissolved oxygen present in the water. This

process can occur at the dredging site and/or at an underwater disposal site.

• The release of toxic or deleterious

substances. Hydrogen sulphide gas is often trapped in sediments and can be released by disturbance to these sediments. In particular, sediments high in organic content (e.g., plant material) have the potential to promote the formation of hydrogen sulphide and ammonia. Contaminants can be introduced into the water when sediments are dredged, and may be taken up by aquatic organisms. Dredging of contaminated sediments may release contaminants directly during the dredging, transport and disposal processes or as a result of runoff, leakage, or leaching from the spoils at the disposal site.

• The deposition of dredged spoils.

Dredged spoils are often disposed of behind a containment dyke at or near the bank of a watercourse or boundary of a wetland. The containment dyke must be capable of retaining the spoils inside the reclamation area. Introduction of excessive amounts of sediments into the watercourse or wetland could affect the existing hydraulic regime. Sediment may be returned to the watercourse or wetland by the erosive action of wind, runoff, currents, or by mass movement or slippage of the material caused by instability of the dumped spoils or the underlying ground.

• Impacts on other users/activities within

the watercourse or wetland, including: - disturbance to fishing and

aquaculture operations by the movement and actions of the dredging equipment;

- disruption or damage to underwater cables.;

- diminished quality of shoreline property caused by; the appearance or odour of dredged spoils, increased turbidity, or contamination of a water supply;



- disruption of navigable channels; - disruption of water current patterns

and the natural transportation and deposition of bed material;

- plant, aquatic or wildlife species which are considered endangered, threatened or of special concern.

All significant marine resources and endangered species in the vicinity of a dredging operation should be identified during the planning stage, and then a work plan must be prepared to minimize the adverse impacts on these resources. Sediment Control Floating silt curtains are often used to control sedimentation of the watercourse during dredging operations. These are pervious floating barriers oriented vertically in the water column from the surface to the bed of the watercourse restricting the migration of turbidity and suspended solids from a dredging or disposal operation. They must be installed in such a way that they fit the bottom contours of the watercourse and are of sufficient height to be able to adjust to fluctuating water levels. A chain threaded through the bottom of the curtain helps to ensure an effective barrier by following the bottom contour. It is critical that floating silt curtains (booms) be monitored and maintained at all times to ensure proper working order. Scheduling of work will depend on site specific parameters (e.g., fresh or salt water habitat). On larger scale projects there may be a requirement for additional monitoring stations (e.g., suspended sediment or other parameters) during dredging and disposal activities. Disposal of Dredged Material Disposal of dredged material on wetlands is generally not permitted. Alternatives for disposal include: 1) Open water disposal is the placement of

dredged spoils in a watercourse or the ocean by means of a pipeline or release

from a barge. Although the easiest and the most economical means of disposal, this option is not permitted in provincial fresh waters because of the potential significant impact on the hydraulic regime of the watercourse, aquatic habitat, and water quality. Ocean Disposal Permits are required for all marine disposal activities.

2) Land disposal is practiced when the

dredged material is suitable for some purpose such as beach or sand dune replenishment, construction (aggregate), top soil, or land fill. When dredging activities are occurring in fresh water this choice should be encouraged. The recycling of salt water dredge fines could pose some problems to the terrestrial environment or groundwater and should be considered carefully before proceeding.

3) Confined disposal involves placement of

material within a dyked or confined area. The material may be piped or deposited directly by machinery operating on shore or transported and dumped by trucks. The dykes generally consist of stabilized earth fill or rock fill embankments. Dykes must be designed to retain the solid particles and pond water while allowing the release of clean effluent to the watercourse or wetland as well as withstand erosive action of wind, waves, and currents.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. A plan, profile and cross sectional

drawing of the area to be dredged, clearly indicating the current volume/depth of sediment, amount of material to be excavated, and the location of the disposal area;

2. Proposed excavation method and

equipment requirements, 3. A detailed chemical analysis to

determine the sediment composition and



the presence of any potential contaminants,

4. The proposed timing and sequence of

events for sediment removal, 5. A description of any proposed impacts

to nearby civil work or infrastructure (i.e., utilities, water, sewer),

6. Storage area for heavy equipment and

refueling location, 7. Description of proposed sediment

containment and erosion prevention measures,

8. Description of how the dredged material

will be stabilized.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1) The approval of Transport Canada,

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, must be obtained when an activity may impede navigation of any navigable watercourse or wetland.

2) If activities will generate impacts on

roads and bridges, or if transport is required (e.g., dredged spoils) on public roadways, the Prince Edward Island Department of Transportation & Public Works and local municipalities must be contacted regarding weight restrictions, highway safety issues, etc.

3) Ocean disposal of dredge spoils must

be approved by Environment Canada under the “Ocean Dumping Regulation” of the Canada Environmental Protection Act.

4) Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is

responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the

harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

5) The disposal of contaminated dredged

sediments on land must receive a Land Disposal Permit from the Pollution Prevention Division of the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. This permit is required in every case to prevent ground and surface water contamination, nuisance odours, as well as, public health and safety issues.

Guidelines When the dredging method produces an unacceptable amount of turbidity, the area to be dredged must be contained by an effective siltation curtain installed prior to the commencement of the dredging. Floating silt curtains (booms) must be monitored and maintained at all times to ensure proper working order. Infilling of a containment area should be carried out beginning at the upland edge and progress towards the watercourse to facilitate containment and settlement of the spoils. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). Prior to carrying out any dredging activity, inspections may be required to prevent the



introduction of aquatic invasive species. This may include the requirement to wash all equipment and treat with an approved chemical (e.g., undiluted vinegar).

For Government Purposes Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.11 EROSION CONTROL (COASTLINE & WATERCOURSE) Page 1 of 4


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to prevent loss of material from the banks of a watercourse or exterior coastline and protect property adjacent to these areas. Definition Erosion control activities use materials (e.g., rip rap, rocks, concrete, treated lumber) or vegetation to stabilize and protect the banks of a watercourse or exterior coastline from the scouring and erosive action of wind, water and ice. Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize sedimentation of the

watercourse or coastal waters. • To minimize the advancement of the

watercourse or coastal waters onto property and infrastructure.

• To ensure the use of non-toxic inert

materials. • To minimize impact to the surrounding

aquatic (i.e., finfish and shellfish) and wildlife habitat, species and resources.

• To minimize the impact (i.e.,

compaction, destruction) by heavy equipment/motor vehicles on the traveled coastline and/or watercourse.

• To minimize impacts of the construction

phase on water quality. • To minimize impact of the activities on

existing vegetation (i.e, trees, shrubs). • To reduce the erosion rate. Planning Considerations The coastline of Prince Edward Island is characterized by easily erodible sedimentary rock, composed mostly of sandstones and claystones. Forces of nature and natural processes (i.e., waves, wind, tidal currents, ice scour, weathering, freezing/thawing and chemical breakdown of rock) often result in

erosion. However, these natural processes also supply beaches with sand. If all erodible shorelines were stabilized, eventually the coastline would become severely altered and change drastically in appearance. Average shoreline erosion rates vary from 0.5 metres (1.6 feet) per year on the south and east shores of PEI to as much as 1.5 metres (5 feet) per year on the north and west shores. The higher erosion rate, on the north and west coasts, is directly attributable to the high degree of exposure to storm conditions. Prince Edward Island will be severely affected as the influence of global warming takes hold in years to come. Climate change will bring with it higher tidal fluctuations, increased incidents of storm surges and increased erosion along shorelines. It is important to remember that erosion will always be occurring in the shore zone. Erosion control methods are not solutions to shoreline erosion, they are only measures which will help slow down or significantly limit the amount of erosion. Even if all the work is done properly and at great expense, the site will still have to be maintained and/or improved in the future to keep up with the forces of natural erosion. To minimize environmental impacts caused by the activity, the length and timing of the construction period must be kept to a minimum and planned so as not to coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish, such as spawning and egg incubation times. Special consideration must also be given to the shellfish industry and the timing will take into account spatfall windows and other sensitive characteristics of the resource. Each site is unique and will require a site specific review to determine the type of structure best suited for the location. The method used depends on the magnitude of the erosive forces and economic feasibility.

Erosion Control Methods 1. Vegetation in the form of grasses,

shrubs, trees and vines provides excellent protection against soil erosion. This method is most effective where the



banks are made up of soil which can sustain plant growth and have gentle slopes. Vegetation also promotes aquatic and wildlife habitat.

The degree of erosion protection offered by vegetative measures increases as the plants and root systems grow and spread. The root systems hold soil particles in place and maintain the soil’s capacity to absorb water. Vegetation is more compatible with the natural watercourse characteristics. In general, the plants should be capable of attaining dense growth with fibrous roots providing a complete soil cover. The selected species should be easy to plant, fast growing, requiring little or no irrigation, fertilizer, or mowing. Examples of plants used for vegetative stabilization include: alders, willows, poplars, shrub willow, shrub dogwood, lupine, clover, timothy and trefoil. A local nursery could be consulted for species of plants that must be adapted to specific conditions. Vegetation is less costly than other measures and once it is established requires little or no maintenance. Other types of erosion control works should be avoided if vegetation can be used, or they should be used in combination with vegetation wherever possible.

2. Rip Rap is a layer of boulders, cobbles

or rock fragments placed over an exposed slope to help prevent erosion. Rip rap depends on the soil beneath it for support, therefore it must be founded on solid ground. If the banks are unstable, crumbling, excessively steep or vertical, rock filled wire baskets or retaining walls may be used. The effect of adding rip rap is immediate, and it can be used during any season. However, the rip rap should be hard, and resistant to weathering.

The sequence for construction includes uniformly grading the surface of the banks, followed by placement of the rip rap. Placement of a filter layer, such as geotechnical fabric and/or a layer of clean gravel may be used. Depending upon the type of rip rap material selected and whether filter fabric is used in conjunction with the rip rap, this method generally proves to be the least expensive (except for vegetation).

3. Woven wire baskets (gabions) filled

with rocks large enough that they will not pass through the openings in the baskets may be used to armour the eroding or slumping banks of a watercourse or exterior coastline.



Rock filled wire baskets can be used where the velocity of the water is high (inland waters) or where the banks are steep. If properly installed using appropriate materials (igneous rock such as granite), rock filled wire baskets have a long life span. Placement of a filter layer, such as geotechnical fabric and/or a layer of clean gravel may be used. This method is generally the most expensive and usually requires an experienced contractor to perform the work.

4. Retaining walls are walls consisting of

timber cribwork, concrete, metal or other appropriate material built to lend stability to the banks of a watercourse. Retaining walls can be used on steep or vertical banks.

The retaining wall must be founded at the base of the present day bank. Placement of a filter layer, such as geotechnical fabric and/or a layer of clean gravel may be used. Depending upon the availability and cost of materials used, this method can be moderately priced.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. A description of the proposed

construction methods and materials, 2. The location/extent of the bank and area

to be stabilized (Photographs may be provided.),

3. A drawing clearly indicating the length

and height of bank affected, 4. A drawing clearly indicating the height,

length, width, and depth of the proposed works,

5. A description of the access route to shoreline or watercourse.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved In coastal areas most lands below the high water mark are owned by the Province of Prince Edward Island. To verify land ownership rights, the original deeds should be checked with the Taxation and Land Registry Division of the PEI Department of Provincial Treasury.

Guidelines If private access routes are to be used, landowner permission must be obtained prior to commencement of work. Machinery must be operated on land (above the high water mark) and in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the banks of the watercourse and coastal areas (e.g., beaches). Work must be conducted in a manner so as not to result in any siltation or disturbance to adjacent areas. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the coastline and/or watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall) if the work is to be carried out in the immediate vicinity. Materials used in the erosion control activities must be clean, durable, non-ore-bearing, non-toxic material.



All coastline and watercourse erosion control structures must be keyed (entrenched) into the base of the existing bank to prevent undermining. The exterior face of the coastline structure should be keyed into the beach profile to a depth of at least 0.6 metres (two feet). This will help prevent undermining and possible structural failure. Erosion control structures are designed to provide stabilization to banks and are constructed at the toe of the existing bank. Materials are not allowed to encroach beyond one metre of the exterior coastline side of the toe of the existing bank. (The reclaiming of eroded property is not permitted.) In freshwater environments the encroachment of materials on the watercourse must be kept to a minimum. All longitudinal extremities of the structures should be tied back into the existing bank. This will help prevent scouring around the ends of the structure which could lead to total structural failure. All structures must be designed to withstand water forces from high velocity, wave action and ice movement. Filter fabric may be used in combination with any erosion control method. The use of erosion control materials displaying protruding rebar or materials contaminated with asphalt is not permitted.

If rip rap is being used, the slopes where the rip rap is to be placed should be graded to a gentle slope. A uniform slope may be obtained with clean, well-graded fill material which can be added and compacted as needed. If rip rap is installed, it requires maintenance and should be checked periodically to ensure that movement of the stones does not result in exposing the slope to an increased risk of failure. If wire baskets are used they must be filled with clean stone material which is larger than the mesh size. When more that one tier is used, the wire baskets must be terraced and tied together to add stability to the structure. If wire baskets are used, the backfill material behind the wire baskets must be compacted to help prevent future washout. If a retaining wall is constructed, drainage must be provided for water that accumulates behind the retaining wall using a perforated pipe that penetrates the wall or other such means. If timber cribwork is constructed, no wood treated with creosote or pentachlorophenol should be used below the normal high waterline.

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require Regulatory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.12 INSTREAM DATA COLLECTION STRUCTURES Page 1 of 2


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to install a temporary structure in order to assess biological or physical parameters (i.e., to enumerate fish, obtain a systematic record of water level and flow). Definition Instream data collection structures are devices installed on or adjacent to watercourses for hydro technical and fish counting purposes (e.g., automatic sampling devices or water flow gauging stations used for biological assessment and scientific purposes). The placement of data loggers, thermometers and other minor data collection devices are not considered a watercourse or wetland alteration activity. Environmental Protection Objectives • To avoid interference with navigation. • To minimize sedimentation and erosion

of the watercourse. • To maintain the stability of the banks of

the watercourse. • To minimize impacts to fish habitat and

migration. Planning Considerations Instream data collection structures are likely to vary depending on the scope of the proposed research. Appropriate planning should ensure that safe navigation is not compromised by improperly placed, anchored or marked instream data collection structures. The location of the data collection structure should be readily accessible for inspection and supervision by trained personnel. Instream work required to install the data collection structure may impact the aquatic habitat and impede fish migration. Placement of the structure will need to respect the local hydraulic conditions (e.g.,

storm water flow), as well as, wildlife and aquatic habitat. An instream data collection structure must be secured or protected from ice and other debris in the flow. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. a description of the data collection

device and its operation specifics 2. a detailed cross sectional drawing of the

installed device (including support or anchoring mechanism);

3. duration, timing and purpose of the

proposed structure; 4. a description of the intended

construction materials. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1. The approval of Transport Canada

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act must be obtained for any structure to be placed in or across any navigable watercourse.

2. All electro-fishing activities, fish

ladders, research, etc. require a scientific license from Fisheries and Oceans Canada issued under the “Application for License Issued Pursuant to Section 52 of the Fishery (General) Regulations”. Any application for works on PEI will be directed to the PEI Area Office of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and application made to Resource Management Branch, Licensing Centre. This scientific license covers areas including education, public displays and scientific research projects.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.12 INSTREAM DATA COLLECTION STRUCTURES Page 2 of 2


Guidelines Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). Equipment used in the watercourse must be mechanically sound having no leaking fuel tanks or hydraulic systems and should be steam cleaned free of petroleum products and dirt.

Periodical checks are required to ensure that the structure is not causing any damage to the watercourse or aquatic environment. Proper marking and signage is required for all structures.

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require a regulatory review. Activities that require a scientific license will be directed to PEI Area Office of Fisheries and Oceans Canada for application to the Resource Management Branch, Licensing Centre.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.13 LAND DEVELOPMENT Page 1 of 3


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide for an orderly planned development in a way that permits the development while minimizing the environmental impact. Definition The development of land which includes the removal of the vegetative surface, construction of roadways and installation of utilities for the purposes of a residential, urban or commercial/industrial development (e.g., sub-division). Environmental Protection Objectives • To control sedimentation of adjacent

watercourse or wetlands. • To control surface erosion upslope of

the watercourse or wetland which is a result of the construction methods.

• To minimize impact of the project on

aquatic and wildlife habitat and species. • To minimize impact to water quality. • To protect and maintain buffer zones

surrounding watercourses and wetlands. • To minimize the impacts of storm-water

runoff on watercourses and wetlands. • To strike an appropriate balance

between development and conservation of habitat.

Planning Considerations Development layout must be designed on a site specific basis to minimize environmental impacts. The orderly progression of any construction should take place in a manner which exposes the least amount of erodible soils as possible. This may be accomplished by phasing the development to allow vegetation to reestablish as the project progresses. When development opportunities are identified for a particular property, careful planning is required in order to minimize any

adverse effects on watercourses, wetlands, or aquatic/wildlife habitat. Planning considerations must include: • the identification of existing drainage

patterns, watercourses, wetlands and buffer zones (as required in the Environmental Protection Act) within the proposed development area;

• a surface and storm water management

plan must be developed to display how surface and storm water management will be addressed;

• a sediment and erosion control plan

must depict a strategy for preventing sediment discharge from disturbed areas during each phase of construction. Sediment discharge potential can be greatest during the early grading phases prior to ditch and slope stabilization and the routing of surface water flows into appropriate areas;

• maintenance activities along access

corridors and right-of-ways must be undertaken to minimize the potential of ground disturbance and resulting sedimentation of watercourses;

• a de-watering plan for installation of

sewer and water lines when the infrastructure crosses or is in close proximity to watercourses or wetlands;

• the identification of temporary storage

locations and containment measures of earthen materials (e.g., topsoil, shale) to be used in the construction phase.



Ten-metre buffer zones (in addition to the required setbacks under the Planning Act or other applicable legislation or municipal bylaws) are required for residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and recreational developments adjacent to watercourses and designated wetlands. Grass may be planted and mowed and trees and shrubs may be planted and managed within this buffer zone. However, except as otherwise permitted under section 10 of the Environmental Protection Act, soil or cover vegetation may not be disturbed by dumping or excavation. If the land is forested, the forested riparian zone provisions (as stated in “Section 2.4 – The Provision of Buffer Zones” or the Environmental Protection Act) apply. Application Requirements Any activity (e.g., installation of a waterline, culvert, bridge or sewer line) within 10 metres of a watercourse or wetland requires a Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Permit from the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. Each of the activities’ application requirements are detailed individually in the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines.

Any proposed alteration of the forested riparian zone must be reviewed by the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry since some activities (e.g., the stumping of trees with machinery) within the forested riparian zone are prohibited. Guidelines Prior to the commencement of construction, sediment control works should be installed to prevent sedimentation of the watercourse or wetland and be maintained, as required, until a vegetative cover is established. (See “Section 2.5 - Potential Environmental Impacts”.) It is important to minimize disturbances caused by the construction phase and to stabilize the site without delay to prevent siltation of the watercourse or wetland. Timing of work should not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall) as the work can have impacts on resources located long distances from the work site. Any in-stream work should be carried out in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). Should the watercourse require any adjustments, a



pump-around or a temporary plastic-lined diversion must be utilized to maintain water flow and quality.

Stream crossing widths should be kept to a minimum. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks.

Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the coastline and/or watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. The proponent must take the necessary precautions to ensure public safety.

For Government Purposes All applications will require a Regulatory review. Other alteration activities associated with the development (e.g., culvert installation) may trigger a Regulatory and Advisory Review. See appropriate section as listed in the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.14 PIPELINE AND CABLE CROSSINGS Page 1 of 7


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide a continuation of a pipeline or cable across a watercourse without creating a barrier to fish passage. Definition Pipeline/cable crossings are any locations where fiber-optic, electrical cables or distribution/transmission pipelines (i.e., carrying petroleum products, sewage or water) cross a watercourse.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize impact to the surrounding

aquatic (i.e., finfish and shellfish) and wildlife habitat, species and resources.

• To minimize impacts to navigation. • To minimize impacts to water quality.

Planning Considerations Alignments should be planned to minimize the number of watercourse crossings. Installation of pipe and cable crossings should avoid wetlands where possible. An in-depth assessment of the proposed crossing sites must be undertaken before a route is chosen to determine site suitability and to help in the selection of appropriate construction techniques.

Sensitivity is based on the potential impacts of construction on the variables listed above and their tolerance to sediment load. The harmful impacts resulting from constructing a pipeline/cable crossing can be significant. Concerns include: 1. Loss of habitat - resulting from

trenching, backfilling, and associated operations in the watercourse, wetland and riparian areas.

2. Turbidity and Sedimentation - as a result

of surface erosion and in-stream work. Unless the installation method involves no in-stream work, the potential for sedimentation is severe.

3. Degradation of water quality - from leaking pipelines or fuel spills.

4. Contamination of soils - caused by a

leaking pipeline. 5. Impacts to other watercourse users –

from interference with navigational safety, diminished value of shorefront properties caused by turbidity and sedimentation, and interference with fishing operations caused by equipment and sedimentation.

The method chosen depends on habitat sensitivity, size of watercourse, approach slopes, channel and flow characteristics. Emphasis should be placed on habitat sensitivity. Highly sensitive areas should not be considered for a crossing site. There are two categories of pipeline crossing construction techniques with different methods in each category. Open cut techniques involve work in the watercourse. The preferred techniques for pipeline and cable crossing activities to be completed on Prince Edward Island can be found in the In Isolation of Stream Flow category below. A brief description of each method and the advantages and disadvantages from an environmental standpoint are outlined below: 1) OPEN CUT CATEGORY

These techniques involve the use of equipment directly in watercourses and often result in sedimentation and adverse effects to fish and fish habitat.

Back Hoe Method - is the most commonly used technique which involves trenching through the watercourse with a hydraulic hoe. The Back Hoe method is used in shallow watercourses.

Advantages: • fast • minimizes time

in watercourse • maintains

channel flow • maintains fish

Disadvantages: • potentially high

sedimentation during excavation and backfilling

• in-stream



passage

stockpiling of spoil on wide watercourses

Dragline Method - is used in wide, deep watercourses. It involves trenching through the watercourse with a yo-yo bucket from either bank. This method will likely require that the applicant complete an Environmental Impact Assessment.

Advantages: • equipment not

stationed in the watercourse

• spoil on banks • maintains


passage

Disadvantages: • potentially high

sedimentation • slow • long duration of

sedimentation • safety concern

with cables strung across watercourse

Suction Dredge Method - is used in wide channels and is accomplished by dredging a trench through the watercourse with suction and pumping the slurry to the banks or tanks on barges. This method will likely require that the applicant complete an Environmental Impact Assessment. Advantages: • minimal

sedimentation during trenching

• maintains channel flow

• maintains fish passage

• no in-stream spoil storage

Disadvantages: • settling ponds

required for slurry

• disposal of settled solids

• possible damage to fish and fish habitat

2)WORKING IN ISOLATION OF STREAM FLOW (IN THE DRY) These methods involve work carried out without disturbance to a watercourse. Bridge Attachment Method - involves attaching line to an existing bridge structure.

This method is used on large watercourses with unstable approach slopes and sensitive habitat where there should be no in-stream activity. Advantages: • no

sedimentation • no stream bed

disturbance • maintains

normal channel flow


Disadvantages: • possible visual

impact • safety • visibility of

pipeline may lead to damage by third party and introduction of product into water

By-Pass Method - involves blocking the water upstream from the crossing and diverting the flow past the site in pipes lying in the stream bed. The watercourse is dammed downstream from the site to prevent backflow. The By-Pass method is used on smaller watercourses and should be carried out during low flow periods. Advantages: • limited

sedimentation • maintains

channel flow • capable of

maintaining fish passage

Disadvantages: • sedimentation

during dam construction, removal and as water flushes over construction area

• susceptible to washout

• slow to install • dries up short

reach of stream bed

• fish salvage required from dried up reach

• by-pass pipes can be crushed or blocked

• some bank and stream bed disturbance may be required



• conditions in by-pass pipe, such as slope and velocity of flow, may prevent fish passage

Dam and Pump Method - damming the flow upstream and downstream of the construction site and pumping the water around the site using hoses. This method can not be used for high flows; it must be used in small, low flow watercourses. Advantages: • limited


channel flow

Disadvantages: • sedimentation

during dam construction, dam removal and as water flushes over construction area

• susceptible to washout

• slow to install • dries up short

reach of stream bed

• fish salvage required from dried up reach

• barrier to fish • pumping must be

carried out 24 hours a day

Coffer Dam Method - involves installing a coffer dam approximately two thirds of the way out into the watercourse, pumping the work area dry, installing the line, and repeating the procedure on the other side of the watercourse. Sand bags or rocks faced with plastic, sheet piling, or other materials can be used for coffer dams provided that they do not pose a risk of introducing sediment into the watercourse. This method is suitable for moderate to large watercourses.

Advantages: • maintains


passage

Disadvantages: • possible

moderate sedimentation depending on amount of instream work

• dries up wide section of watercourse

• increased water velocity

• possible increased erosion on opposite bank

• potential washout of coffer dam

• slow • uses large area

of right-of-way and creates terrain disturbance

Channel Diversion Method - involves constructing a temporary plastic lined diversion channel around the worksite and diverting the flow from the watercourse into it. It is appropriate for larger watercourses where it is not feasible to pipe or pump the flow around the site. Advantages: • maintains


passage

Disadvantages: • temporarily dries

up long reach of watercourse

• slow • potential washout

of diversion dam



Boring Method - involves boring under the watercourse from a pit on one side of the watercourse to a pit on the other side, with, or without casing. This method is suitable in situations where the bed of the watercourse cannot be disturbed and where the water table is low. (Also known as the Auger method.) Advantages: • no

sedimentation • no disturbance

of stream bed • no bank


normal channel flow


Disadvantages: • pits may need

pumping dry onto surrounding land

• possibility of sump water causing sedimentation of watercourse

• deep pits cause disturbance of approach slopes

• possibility of pits caving in

Directional Drilling - accomplished by setting up a drill rig on one approach slope and drilling to a target on the opposite approach slope. Can be used in large watercourses with sensitive aquatic habitat and where there is no instream activity allowed.

Advantages: • no

Disadvantages: • disturbance of

sedimentation • no bank

disturbance • no stream bed


normal channel flow


• can be used to avoid working on unstable approach slopes

drilling and target area

• disposal of drilling fluids

• fractures in substrate may release pressurized drilling fluids into watercourse

Coastal Waters Bed Method - involves laying the weighted line on the bed of the watercourse. The cable/line is buried only on the slopes and banks. This method is used in deep watercourses where there is no chance of damage from anchors or dredging. Advantages: • little bed

disturbance • limited


channel flow

Disadvantages: • risk of damage to

the pipeline/cable • potential

introduction of product into watercourse due to third party




damage • maintenance

impacts

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included:

1. a plan, profile, and cross sectional

drawing to scale of the pipeline or cable crossing including a description of the site characteristics (i.e., approach slope

and bank stability, water depth, height of banks and erosion potential); and

2. a complete description of the proposed

construction method and timing of project activities.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed.



Other Government Agencies Involved 1. The approval of Transport Canada,

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, is required for any structure to be placed in or across any navigable waters.



Guidelines The in-stream work should be carried out in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). Before starting construction, salvage fish from behind coffer dams and diverted areas and return them to the downstream portion of the watercourse. Material removed from the bank of the watercourse must be stockpiled and the bank restored and stabilized to prevent erosion after the pipe is installed. The portions of the backfilled trench within 10 metres of the watercourse upon which vegetation cannot be established must be covered with rip-rap to help prevent erosion of the fill material. The excavated trench on the landward side of the rip-rapped area is to be seeded and mulched to prevent erosion. Excess backfill material is to be disposed of such that it cannot enter the watercourse or adjacent wetland during periods of high flow or be carried to the watercourse or wetland by surface runoff. The removal of vegetation for the pipeline or cable crossing installation must be limited to the width of equipment required to carry out the project.

The removal of vegetation for the pipeline or cable crossing installation should not occur until all material and equipment is on site ready to begin the actual crossing work. All exposed soil must be seeded and/or stabilized immediately following completion of activities. Vegetate all disturbed bank and riparian areas to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate. If there is insufficient time (at least four weeks) in the growing season remaining for the seeds to germinate, the site should be stabilized (e.g., cover exposed areas with erosion control blankets to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion) and vegetated the following spring. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall) if the work is to be carried out in the immediate vicinity. If it is not buried, the pipeline must be weighted (i.e., ballasted) to prevent it from floating. Water from conduit trenches draining to a watercourse must be trapped and pumped to a settling pond or filtered through a vegetated area. The trench in and adjacent to the watercourse or wetland must be refilled with material that was excavated and the original grading and elevation restored; where rock was removed, gravel fill or clean quarried rock material may be used. All trenching methods require the trench to be back filled and stabilized after the pipeline/cable has been placed. All in-stream work should be scheduled to be performed during periods of low flow unless the installation technique involves no in-stream work such as the directional drilling or boring method. Surface erosion must be minimized by stabilizing the backfilled trench as quickly as possible and installing sediment control



devices to trap sediment until permanent vegetation has been established. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water.

Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills.

For Government Purposes Open Cut Category: All applications require a Regulatory and Advisory review. Working in Isolation of Stream Flow (In the Dry) Category: All applications require a Regulatory review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.15 TEMPORARY CROSSINGS Page 1 of 3


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide a short term, safe, sturdy, low maintenance and environmentally sound crossing structure with a waterway opening large enough to pass peak flows and prevent ice or debris jams. Definition Temporary crossings are structures that provide access across the watercourse for a limited period of time (usually less than 60 days). They are generally used to provide working access to a crossing under construction, to maintain traffic flow for the general public during culvert or bridge repairs and to provide temporary access for the purposes of short term timber harvesting. Temporary bridges are constructed or prefabricated structures used to provide short term access across a watercourse.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To maintain free, unobstructed fish

passage through the crossing providing fish with migration paths for spawning, rearing, feeding and wintering.


watercourse as a result of construction, installation and removal of the structure.

• To prevent erosion of the banks and bed

as a result of construction, installation and removal of the structure.

Planning Considerations Watercourse crossings impact the environment to some degree. Careful planning and design can minimize this impact. All watercourse crossings should be designed to alter the flow of the watercourse as little as possible, to retain natural stream morphology, and to preserve fish habitat and fish passage. Temporary bridges have minimal impact on aquatic habitat and create minor disturbance to the bed and banks. They also pose the

least potential for creating a barrier to fish migration. Poorly designed crossings can result in inadequate capacity leading to blockage followed by flooding, erosion and washouts. These impacts can damage aquatic habitat and physical property, endanger human life, and prevent the utilization of upstream habitat. Route selection for access roads should be designed to minimize the number of watercourse crossings. The length of all watercourse crossings should also be minimized by planning to construct them at right angles to the watercourse. Sites where the soils are unstable or erodible (fine sand, silt, or clay), or the watercourse meanders, should be avoided if possible. Timing Considerations Temporary crossings are designed to accommodate peak flows, but only those expected to occur for a specified time period outside the spring freshet period. Permits for temporary crossings are generally granted for the low flow period and it is essential that they be removed immediately after the specified time period. The conditions placed on construction activities are influenced by the time of year during which the crossing is to be installed and the length of time that the crossing will be in use. If the crossing is to be in use for a period which interferes with fish migration, spawning, egg incubation, spatfall, shellfish areas, or existing shellfish stocks the installation and maintenance of the crossing must be given the same environmental considerations as a permanent crossing. (See “Section 3.5 – Bridges”.) Time restrictions are placed on all watercourse and wetland permits. Temporary bridges can not be left in the water past the expiry date on the alteration permit, because the waterway opening was designed for a limited amount of time, possibly during low flow conditions. High flow conditions, such as spring runoff, could result in bridge washout.



Sediment Control Considerations Excessive quantities of sediment entering the watercourse can severely impact the aquatic environment. Fine particles settling on the bed of the watercourse can negatively impact aquatic organisms and destroy fish spawning and rearing habitat. Large quantities of sediment may affect the hydraulic capacity of a watercourse by reducing the cross sectional area, increasing the potential for flooding. Construction plans must take into account sediment control during all phases of the alteration and continue until all disturbed ground has been permanently stabilized. This will ensure that suspended soil particles in surface runoff water are trapped before being discharged into the aquatic environment. Some simple and basic principles can be practiced when selecting and preparing a crossing site which will dramatically reduce the amount of suspended sediment in surface runoff. One such principle is to avoid sites with erodible and unstable banks. Scheduling work to take place during the winter or dry periods will decrease erosion of the disturbed area and minimize any rutting caused by heavy equipment traffic. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included:

1. crossing location and dimensional sketch of the structure (including width and depth of the watercourse at the crossing site);

2. timing of installation and removal;

and 3. a complete description of the

proposed construction and removal methods.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed.

Guidelines Stream crossing locations must be constructed in narrow reaches of the watercourse. All temporary crossings should be constructed at right angles to the watercourse. For temporary bridges, the bedlogs and associated foundation or cribwork should be placed back from the stream bank a minimum of 30 centimetres. The span of the temporary bridge must be wide enough to ensure that any work required to prepare a stable foundation does not result in any material entering the watercourse. For projects other than forestry operations, standard techniques for sediment control, such as the use of temporary check dams, must be employed to prevent surface runoff from disturbed areas from introducing sediment directly into the watercourse. For temporary crossings built for forestry purposes, brush/material mats must be placed across the approaches to the bridge. As these mats degrade, they must be immediately repaired by adding new brush/material. All ruts created by wood harvest or extraction within 20 metres of the watercourse must be stabilized with brush on the day that they are created. For temporary crossings built for forestry purposes, a corduroy road must be constructed over all wet areas within 20 metres of the bridge approaches. The crossing must be used as little as possible in wet weather to reduce the impact of vehicle traffic on the adjacent stream banks. Temporary crossings built for forestry purposes cannot be left in place longer than 30 days without prior inspection and approval. Minimize disturbances caused by the construction phase and stabilize the site



immediately to prevent siltation of the watercourse.

No machinery may be stationed in the wetted portion of the channel; machinery operating from the shore, a trestle or a barge may reach into the water with an extension.

Washing of equipment, concrete forms or machinery must not take place in or adjacent to the watercourse. Debris generated during the project must be prevented from entering the watercourse and disposed of in a provincially approved manner. The structure must be completely removed when the project is completed (i.e., the approach material removed back to the original banks of the watercourse, the banks stabilized and all project materials removed within 10 metres of the watercourse).


Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.16 WATERCOURSE DIVERSIONS (TEMPORARY & PERMANENT) Page 1 of 3


Purpose The purpose of a diversion is to relocate or straighten an existing watercourse in order to help prevent loss of property, to facilitate highway construction or repair, or to develop a bordering property. Definition A temporary diversion is created by the installation of a temporary channel to re-direct the water flow which allows work to occur in the dry. A permanent diversion is created by the excavation of a new channel which re-directs the existing watercourse and straightens a meandering reach of channel, shortening the overall length of the watercourse. Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize the length of the diversion. • To minimize disruption to the hydraulic

regime. • To minimize removal of aquatic habitat. • To minimize downstream erosion and

sedimentation. • To maintain unobstructed fish passage.

Planning Considerations In planning the design of a diversion, the natural meander pattern and physical characteristics of the channel (upstream and downstream of the proposed diversion) should be used as a guide, provided these sections of the channel are stable. This will lessen the disruption of the man-made structure on the hydraulic regime and fish and fish habitat. Diversions may cause adverse impacts on the watercourse, including: 1. Loss of Habitat Permanent diversions eliminate a section of natural channel and its corresponding

aquatic habitat (e.g., natural vegetative cover, bottom substrate). Under the Fisheries Act no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless authorized by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). 2. Changes to Natural Water Flow Since the diversion is generally shorter and straighter than the meander it replaces, the slope of the new channel will likely be steeper resulting in an increase in water velocities. An increase in water velocities may result in impacts to fish and fish habitat (e.g., barrier to fish migration, loss of rearing/spawning grounds) and may cause undermining of the downstream banks. 3. Erosion and Sedimentation An increase in water velocities may result in erosion of the new channel and downstream reaches of the watercourse. Unless carefully designed, constructed and stabilized, diversion channels may be a major source of sediment which can result in extensive downstream degradation of water quality and aquatic habitat. 4. Fish Stranding Fish may become trapped in isolated pools or stranded in the abandoned channel during the diversion activities. Note: Materials (e.g., nets, buckets) and adequate staffing will be required on site to rescue any stranded fish and relocate them to the main channel of the watercourse when the diversion takes place. It is extremely difficult to recreate the characteristics of a natural channel; therefore, permanent diversions should only be considered if no reasonable alternative is available. Proposals for permanent diversions which decrease the length, steepen the profile, or alter the cross-sectional area of the existing channel may require a hydro-technical study. Temporary diversions are generally constructed in conjunction with other watercourse or wetland alteration activities (e.g., culvert replacement) to ensure that those activities are completed in isolation of stream flow (in the dry). Depending on the



scope of the project and site specific characteristics, some temporary diversion applications may be subject to the same consideration and guidelines as a permanent diversion.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, temporary diversions and permanent diversions will require a copy of the following: 1) plan, profile, and cross sectional

drawing clearly showing the size, shape, and alignment of the new and existing channel;

2) a full description of proposed

construction methods including an erosion, sediment and water control plan.

Permanent diversions, in addition to the requirements listed above, will require: 1) the rationale for using a permanent

diversion; 2) plan, profile, and cross sectional

drawing to scale clearly showing the size, shape, and alignment of the new and existing channel extending a minimum distance of 30 metres upstream and downstream of the reach to be altered;

3) a description of the bed and bank

material of the existing channel; and

4) a geotechnical survey along the existing and proposed new channels.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1) Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is

responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act, no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained from Fisheries and Oceans Canada before the activity can occur.

2) The approval of Transport Canada,

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, may be required for permanent diversions.

3) Unless ownership rights were granted,

lands below the high water mark are owned by the Province of Prince Edward Island. To verify land ownership rights, the proponent’s original deed should be checked with the Taxation and Land Registry Division of the Prince Edward Island Department of Provincial Treasury.

Guidelines The new channel must be excavated in isolation of stream flow (in the dry) from the downstream end. The existing channel must be left untouched until the new channel is completed and stabilized. The upstream end of the existing channel must be closed off with non-porous material, and stabilized with non-erodible material. Standard techniques for sediment control, such as the use of temporary check dams and/or silt fences, must be employed to prevent surface runoff from disturbed areas from introducing sediment directly into the watercourse.



The approach angle at which the flow of the diversion enters an existing channel must not exceed a maximum of 15 degrees. Where the diversion channel enters the existing watercourse, the bank must be stabilized with sufficient rip-rap to prevent erosion. Construction of the diversion should take place during low flow conditions (between June 1st and September 30th). Be prepared to relocate any fish that become trapped in isolated pools or stranded in newly flooded areas to the main channel of the watercourse. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). Stream banks of the permanent channel must be properly stabilized with vegetation, for example grasses, shrubs and trees. Vegetation must be maintained along the banks of the watercourse in sufficient quantity to provide adequate shade to prevent a rise in water temperature which could adversely affect the fish (finfish and shellfish), fish food and fish habitat. The existing channel should be backfilled following a permanent diversion of the flow into the new channel.

The natural meander, depth and width of the existing watercourse (as it exists upstream and downstream of the proposed diversion) should be maintained throughout the permanent diversion. When permanent re-channeling is permitted the diversion channel should mimic aquatic habitat features of the existing watercourse (pools, rock clusters, etc). Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills.

For Government Purposes Temporary Diversions: Applications for these activities require Regulatory Review. Permanent Diversions: Applications for these activities require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.17 WATERCOURSE HABITAT IMPROVEMENT WORKS Page 1 of 5


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to improve or restore a watercourse’s habitat for aquatic and wildlife species. Definition Watercourse habitat improvement includes those activities and structures implemented to confine in-stream sediment, provide cover and habitat for fish and/or assist in natural channel formation. Structures/activities may include: cover structures, brush mats, digger logs, deflectors, and gabions. This section does not cover: stone pool creation, baffles and other fish passage improvement structures associated with existing watercourse crossings which are covered in “Section 3.7 – Culverts”; or woody debris removal which is covered in “Section 3.9 - De-Brushing or Woody Debris Removal”. Environmental Protection Objectives • To improve fish and wildlife habitat. • To minimize disturbance to the

watercourse. • To ensure sustainability of wildlife

populations in the area. • To strike an appropriate balance

between alteration and preservation of habitat.

• To minimize disturbance to natural

stream characteristics.

Planning Considerations Due to the differences in natural stream characteristics, topography, aquatic species present and the type of soil and bedrock in different areas, the same enhancement techniques are not applicable in all Island watercourses. Some instream structures provide only short-term benefits and have high maintenance requirements. Habitat enhancement is directed at specific species and localized areas. Care must be exercised to minimize adverse effects to other indigenous species and the remainder

of the watercourse. For example, construction of habitat improvement devices may constrict water flow, accumulate debris or cause habitat degradation. Before undertaking any specific habitat improvements, applicants should: • contact Fisheries and Oceans Canada

and the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry well in advance of the commencement of work;

• consider all species of fish and wildlife

that utilize the area; and • consult with local interest groups or

stakeholders. Most projects will require a habitat survey to identify limiting or impacting factors (e.g., habitat biology, stream hydrology and hydraulics) which will need to be addressed. Survey results will assist in the provision of the best advice (i.e., types, locations, dimensions, associated mitigation for the construction, and the ongoing operation phases of the structure). The type of instream habitat improvement device chosen depends on the watercourse and the condition of the watercourse. A brief description of some of the structures commonly used on Prince Edward Island and the advantages and disadvantages are outlined below: 1. Digger Logs – This common habitat

improvement technique has been shown to mimic natural log processes in a stream environment. After assessing the stream and determining their location, digger logs can utilize the stream’s energy to provide a scour pool for trout rearing and feeding, assist in re-establishing a meander pattern to a watercourse, provide a method of sorting the streambed material for potential spawning sites and provide oxygen entrapment to improve water quality. Digger logs are used to create, restore and maintain holding pools for fish.



Digger logs are best used in: • smaller streams up to approximately

five (5) metres in width; • areas lacking stream meander as

they help to restore the riffle-pool sequence;

• in moderate to high gradient streams.

Advantages: • inexpensive,

most material can be acquired near the site;

• immediate results, pools and turbulence for cover are created quickly;

• helps restore stream meander; and

• sorts sediment from the substrate.

Disadvantages: • stream bank may

erode if the log is not properly installed or maintained;

• may reduce or impede passage for smaller fish if not installed or maintained properly;

• must be properly designed and placed to be effective; and

• must not be used in tidal waters or in heavily silted sections of a stream.

2. Brush Mats – Coniferous trees or limbs

can be secured along the bank of the watercourse to capture and confine sediments, narrow the channel and provide shade, cover and habitat for fish.

Advantages: • natural in

appearance; • can use on-site

materials; and • provides

immediate results.

Disadvantages: • ability to

capture sediment will decrease with time;

• proper design, location and anchoring is critical to avoid impacts to downstream structures; and

• can collect debris.

3. Bank Cover – These are permanent

structures constructed of wood or concrete on the outside of a bend in a stream to provide cover. They are used



to mimic bank undercutting and provide hiding and escape cover for both juvenile and adult fish.

Advantages: • provides an

abundance of hiding places for fish;

• can protect stream banks from further scour or erosion; and

• provides a good use for dead wood and stumps (materials can be accessed locally).

Disadvantages: • can catch

debris and ice if not placed properly;

• if improperly installed may constrict flow;

• narrow the navigable channel; and

• may require annual maintenance.

4. Deflectors – Structures can be built

using coniferous trees, logs or rocks secured to the bank to assist in sediment redistribution and deposition, narrow and deepen the stream channel, create holding pools, trap fine sediments, bank reformation and assist in re-establishing a natural stream meander pattern.

Advantages: • moderately long

lived; and • natural in

appearance and uses local materials.

Disadvantages: • requires

considerable • experience to

determine the proper location (placement is critical and extensive

planning is required);

• work can be intensive if the structure is to be back filled with rock; and

• stream bank may erode if the deflector is not properly installed or maintained.

5. Cover Logs – These structures are

permanently affixed to the stream bottom to provide instream, overhead cover for fish. The two types most commonly used on Prince Edward Island are the half cover log and the whole cover log.

Advantages: • can be

accomplished using local materials;

• simple, as well as inexpensive; and

• easy to transport and install.

Disadvantages: • logs placed in

the stream may catch debris;

• may present a “challenge” for anglers and canoeists;

• wooden cover may be displaced by ice or high water conditions; and

• navigation and safety risk if pins are not bent properly.



6. Instream Boulder Cover – Boulders may provide increased holding and feeding cover for various age classes of fish and spawning cover for adults. Boulders may be used in the following conditions: a. In or near the channel, in streams

wider than three (3) metres; b. In sections of the stream where

water velocity keeps rocks free of sediments;

c. Best used runs, or the tails and heads of pools, not riffles.

Advantages: • can use local

materials; • simple,

inexpensive, long lasting; and

• increases habitat for aquatic insects and fish production.

Disadvantages: • boulders are

heavy, hard to transport, and relatively rare in Island streams;

• may become buried if placed in the wrong site; and

• danger to navigation.

7. By-Pass Sediment Basin (Trap) – These

structures are sometimes used by community groups to remove accumulated sediment bedload from the watercourse. This is achieved by installing a sediment basin adjacent to the channel of the existing watercourse and permanently diverting the flow of the water via the sediment basin to capture and accumulate sediments. Site selection is key to this type of alteration and should only be chosen in an area with marginal habitat characteristics prior to the sediment basin installation. The chosen site should be readily accessible for heavy machinery to enter the area and perform installation and/or maintenance activities.

Advantages: • work is

completed in isolation of water flow (in the dry);

• easy to maintain; • reduces

Disadvantages: • expensive; • has to be

maintained frequently;

• can’t be used in areas of high

downstream sediment accumulation; and

• provides immediate results.

water velocity; • loss of existing,

natural aquatic habitat; and

• short term public safety issues.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. a full description of the proposed

technique(s); 2. a sketch of the proposed works in

relation to the watercourse (including pictures of the proposed site and location of the habitat improving structures);

3. a full description of construction

methods and materials; and 4. rationale for the project. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1. Navigable Waters Program of Transport

Canada may become involved should the proposed structure be located on navigable water.


responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act, no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

Guidelines Obtain site specific advice from professionals with expertise in this field.



Obtain landowner permission before carrying out the activity. Instream structures should be able to withstand normal flooding and should be functional over the intended lifespan of the structure. Vegetation must be maintained along the banks of the watercourse in sufficient quantity to provide adequate shade to prevent a rise of water temperature which could adversely affect the fish (finfish and shellfish), fish food and fish habitat. Periodic follow-ups should be conducted to ensure the effectiveness, integrity and safety of the structure(s). Changes in the stream, localized scour and accretion in response to the structure(s) should be monitored to assist with improving the technique.

Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). For activities that require heavy machinery, equipment is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills.

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require Regulatory and Advisory Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.18 WATER INTAKE STRUCTURES Page 1 of 5


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to withdraw a volume of water from a watercourse or wetland. Definition Water intake structures are used to withdraw water from a watercourse or wetland for the purpose of irrigation, domestic supply, manufacturing, fire fighting, aquaculture facilities, or other uses. Environmental Protection Objectives • To minimize disturbance to the bed and

banks of the watercourse during installation.

• To prevent the entrapment, entrainment

and impingement of fish. • To minimize siltation of the watercourse

or wetland during construction and maintenance.

• To maintain sufficient flow and depth of

water for provision of fish habitat and downstream water users.

• To ensure that fish habitat is protected,

and fish passage is maintained.

Planning Considerations Whether the water is withdrawn from a flowing watercourse or a standing body of water such as a pond, the following concerns must be addressed before the project begins: 1) The rate of water withdrawal (pumping

rate) must not cause any finfish or shellfish to be removed from their habitat. The intake must be screened to prevent these organisms from entering the structure. Sufficient screen area must be provided with openings to ensure that approach velocities for finfish are less than 0.15 metres per second.

2) The volume of water remaining in the watercourse or wetland must be adequate for the maintenance of aquatic habitat and fish passage. Decreasing the volume of water may result in an increase in temperature, making the water intolerable for some species of fish. A decrease in water flow can also diminish suitable fish habitat and accelerate sediment deposition.

3) Water intake structures must be

installed so that they do not present an obstruction to migrating fish.

4) Any disturbance caused by installation

must be stabilized immediately to prevent the sedimentation of the watercourse or wetland which could negatively impact fish habitat.

5) The quantity and quality of the water at

the site and downstream of the site must be maintained during and after water withdrawal.

6) Water returned to a watercourse after

use should conform to provincial effluent standards. The temperature of return water may be a concern and will be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Maintenance Flow For flowing bodies of water the acceptable rate of water removal, or the pumping rate, is dependent upon the amount of water available. A certain rate of flow must be maintained downstream of the water intake. This rate is known as maintenance flow and is unique to each site. Since fresh water flow fluctuates on a seasonal basis, acceptable rates of maintenance flows are based on the time of year. Maintenance flow is not required, when:

• water is withdrawn and returned to the watercourse or wetland upstream of the intake,

• water is withdrawn from bays, estuaries or other saltwater environments.



Mean Value of the Specific Monthly Flow (m3/s.km2) in PEI Month Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Value 0.0181 0.0152 0.0198 0.0416 0.0266 0.0168 0.0119 0.0094 0.0082 0.0088 0.0125 0.0164 The effect of water removal is site specific and each case must be considered on an individual basis. The most commonly used method of determining maintenance flow requirements is calculated as 70 % of the median flow, as derived from the nearest Environment Canada gauging station. Depending on the time of year there is a significant difference of flows on a per square kilometre basis. In a case of large difference in flow, Fisheries and Oceans Canada requires that the largest of the flow derived from the two nearest gauging stations be utilized for calculations. Water Requirements Determination of allowable pumping or water withdrawal rates must consider the time period for which the water is needed. Many water withdrawal projects (including irrigation) require water during dry seasons, during which the required maintenance flow may not allow for the removal of any water. If stream flows approach maintenance flow thresholds all seasonal agricultural irrigation will cease and active permits will be revoked. Irrigation users will be shut down as outlined in the “Agricultural Irrigation Policy” (1995) under the “Cessation of Extraction Under Low Flow Conditions” section. Please refer to the “Agricultural Irrigation Policy” as detailed in Appendix F. If the withdrawn water is to be used on a continual basis (i.e., fish hatchery) a calculation of the low flows expected for the watercourse or wetland at the point of withdrawal is used to predict whether or not the maintenance flows allow for any water removal during the low flow period. As per the “Agricultural Irrigation Policy”, one must keep in mind the overall water budget for each watercourse. The

cumulative impacts of multiple water extractions on aquatic life must be examined. Requests for extractions cannot be treated in isolation, they must be considered in relation to the overall water budget. Exploration Drilling If the water is being withdrawn for drilling exploration work, applications will be submitted to the Environmental Assessment section of the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry and will be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment.

Dry Hydrants Dry hydrants are water intake structures consisting of a standpipe buried in the bank of a watercourse or wetland with a horizontal pipe connected to the bottom end which extends into the watercourse or wetland. The end of the pipe must be screened in



accordance with the specifications outlined for all water intake structures, and the structure is subject to all rules and regulations governing water intake structures. Water is withdrawn from a dry hydrant on an ‘as needed’ basis often by a mobile pump carried on a fire truck. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, the following must be included: 1. proposed pumping rates and schedule

with specified dates and times; 2. description of equipment (e.g., type and

size of pipe, intake screen and mesh size, flow meter);

3. description of proposed construction

methods; 4. elevation of intake if a dry hydrant is

proposed. Hydrological data and calculations may have to be submitted in order for the regulatory agencies to determine the appropriate maintenance flows. Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1. In some cases, a representative from

either Fisheries and Oceans Canada or the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry may visit the site to determine maintenance flow requirements or allowable pumping rates from a flowing watercourse.


responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act, no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or

destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Screening requirements for water intakes must be approved by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

3. The approval of Transport Canada,

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act, must be obtained when a structure is to be placed in or across any navigable watercourse.

Guidelines Screens are generally constructed on a rectangular frame. The Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Permit may require that a staff gauge be placed in the watercourse immediately downstream of the water intake. For irrigation purposes, each pump is required to have a flow meter capable of instantaneous and cumulative flow measurement. These measurements must be recorded and submitted to the Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. The water intake and outfall structures must be constructed with bed and bank protection to adequately protect the watercourse and intake works from erosion. The design and location of the intake structure must ensure that a uniform flow distribution is maintained through the total screen area. Not more than one third (1/3) of the stream width may be obstructed by the intake. The water intake structure must not pose a hazard to navigation. Intakes should be constructed such that they do not obstruct fish passage in a stream. A double set of guide slots positioned back to back is to be provided for the screen panels. The screen panels should fit snugly



in the guides so that spaces larger than the clear openings in the mesh do not occur. The water intake and outlet pipes of by-pass ponds must be screened to prevent entrance of fish and the escape of cultivated fish (i.e., aquaculture operations). The screen material must be stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, brass, or bronze. Stainless steel is preferred since corrosion is greatly reduced. For appropriate screen sizes refer to the Freshwater Intake End of Pipe Fish Screen Guideline (March, 1995). Screen panels or screen assemblies must be readily accessible and removable for cleaning, inspection and repairs. The screen must be cleared of debris at regular intervals. A spare screen should be available for maintenance purposes. Intakes should be constructed with a minimum of disturbance and the intake or discharge area should be stabilized and reseeded immediately after construction is completed. For permanent installations, a trash rack should be installed to protect the screen

panels from damage caused by floating debris or ice. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall).

For Government Purposes Applications for this activity require Regulatory, and in some cases Regulatory and Advisory, Review.

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.19 WETLAND ENHANCEMENT PONDS Page 1 of 2


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to create, improve or maintain habitat in an existing wetland or in an area where there are poorly drained soils in order to provide and enhance escape-cover, food and nesting sites for waterfowl or wildlife. Definition A wetland enhancement pond is an excavated pond, in an area of land that is covered by water for all or part of the year (i.e., fresh water marshes, bogs, shrub swamps). This activity does not cover ponds with inlet or outlet channels connecting the pond to a watercourse which are covered in “Section 3.6 – By-Pass Ponds”.

Environmental Protection Objectives • To prevent sedimentation of a natural

watercourse during construction. • To minimize disturbance to existing

waterfowl, wildlife or surrounding wetland habitat.

• To prevent the release of any

deleterious substances into the wetland during construction.

Planning Considerations Wetland enhancement activities should be carried out taking into consideration the lifecycle and needs of waterfowl and wildlife in the area. For example, the noise from heavy machinery operation can cause waterfowl to abandon nests while the placement/shape of ponds can impact the suitability of the pond to certain waterfowl species. Generally wetland enhancement ponds may be constructed from September 1st to December 1st. Vegetated islands may be constructed within the wetland to provide nesting or escape cover for waterfowl. These islands should be located in an area of the wetland pond that is inaccessible to predators.

Sites for wetland enhancement ponds should be chosen with soils capable of retaining water in order to maintain an adequate water depth throughout the nesting season. A suitable water depth, typically 50 to 100 centimetres (0.5 to 1 metre), is important to establish vegetation and aquatic organism populations.

Ponds are typically located in an existing wetland or in an area where poorly drained soils exist. The work is generally not permitted in areas where threatened, endangered or plant species of special concern have been identified. Applicants should bear in mind that once a pond has been created, its classification category may change under the Environmental Protection Act. For example, a shrub swamp which currently requires no buffer zone may be converted into an open water wetland when enhanced and therefore would now require a buffer. Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included:

Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.19 WETLAND ENHANCEMENT PONDS Page 2 of 2


1. location where the proposed enhancement activity is to occur;

2. dimensional sketch clearly indicating

the size of the pond and a cross sectional view showing depth;

3. spoil deposition location; 4. construction methods and

machinery; 5. distance from any nearby

watercourses; 6. timing of the proposed activity; 7. proposed route for machinery to

access the site.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Guidelines The minimum distance from the pond to a watercourse must be a minimum of 10 metres. The average depth of the pond should be approximately 50 to 100 centimetres (0.5 to 1 metre).

The side slopes of the constructed pond should have a gentle grade to allow waterfowl easier access and to create a natural growth of vegetation along the edge. All work must be carried out in a manner which would minimize disturbance to the surrounding area, including machinery access and deposition of spoils. Spoil material must not be deposited where it can enter a nearby watercourse, or disturb an adjacent wetland. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service machinery and store fuel and other materials for the machinery away from the water to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep emergency spill kit on site in case of fluid leaks or spills from machinery.


Prince Edward Island Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Guidelines Section 3.20 WHARVES, PIERS & SLIPWAYS Page 1 of 4


Purpose The purpose of this activity is to provide areas on a shoreline for watercraft to land and embark under a controlled and stable regime, while minimizing the navigational hazard and disturbance to the aquatic habitat. Definition Wharves and piers are permanent or removable structures located along the shore of navigable waters used for swimming and/or boat mooring. The terms wharves and piers are used interchangeably with docks. Boat launching ramps or slipways are constructed ramps leading into a watercourse for the purpose of loading and unloading trailers with boats. Environmental Protection Objectives • To prevent erosion and sedimentation

as a result of the construction process. • To prevent the loss of wildlife/aquatic

habitat. • To minimize shoreline disturbance. • To prevent water pollution at wharves

and other marine facilities. • To minimize the impact on navigational

safety. Planning Considerations Structures placed or built in the shallow waters bordering the banks of a watercourse may pose a threat to the sensitive near shore zone. The near shore zone is often an area of high food productivity, because primary food production is initiated by the penetration of light, acting as a source of energy for algae and aquatic plants. The near shore zone also provides important spawning and nursery habitat for many species of fish and shellfish. In some near shore areas where the fish habitat is unique or critical, shoreline development may not be permitted. For

other near shore areas, shoreline development should be limited or designed such that there is a minimal impact on habitat. The installation of the wharf or pier might infill critical fish habitat or the natural movement of water and sediment may be interrupted by the structure, resulting in erosion or sedimentation of nearby habitat. Shellfish harvesting within 125 metres of every wharf, pier and floating dock is prohibited by Fisheries and Oceans Canada due to potential contamination of shellstock from the materials used during construction or watercraft utilizing the completed structure. The wharf or pier may have the following effects on the hydraulic regime:

• Water current patterns could be changed and, if the structure occupies a significant portion of the channel cross-section, the backwater effects upstream of the structure should be taken into consideration.

• Wharves or piers may increase the

possibility of ice jamming. An assessment of the fish habitat and hydraulic conditions should be undertaken before plans for constructing the wharf, pier or slipway are made. Recreational development of the shoreline for wharves or piers should be limited. Where possible, existing public facilities should be utilized and boat docking facilities should be shared by neighbouring property owners. Boat launch ramps/slipways should be located at stable sites to control shoreline erosion and sedimentation. Slipways require a stable travel surface to ensure vehicles do not become stuck while utilizing the ramp. Approaches should be fairly flat to reduce the chances of vehicles spinning and de-stabilizing the area. Depending on the nature of the existing shoreline, dredging may be required to prevent the release of a “mud wave” as the infill material displaces the underlying, soft,



mobile shoreline bottom. Impacts of a mud wave can extend for a considerable distance away from the initial infill location. If it is necessary to dredge, the material should be replaced with a clean bed of compacted gravel. For more information on dredging guidelines refer to “Section 3. 10 - Dredging”. The installation and use of wharves and piers may damage the sensitive near shore zone. If the amount of sediment released into suspension by the installation of the structure is excessive, fish habitat can be degraded. In the construction phase, there is also the potential for the release of contaminants associated with disturbance of fine grain sediment or the accidental spill of fuels or lubricants. There must be contingency plans in place to address these potential threats to aquatic habitat and water quality. Guidelines for construction activities are site specific. Excavation for supports, where necessary, may require the use of a cofferdam to prevent siltation of the watercourse. In some cases, working during low water periods without the use of heavy machinery is sufficient to protect the watercourse and aquatic habitat in a particular area. Construction of a boat launch ramp/slipway should be done in a manner that minimizes the amount of excavation required. This will reduce the risk of sediment entering the watercourse or wetland. The approaches to the launches/ramps can be stabilized by adding clean gravel, concrete slabs or curbs. Asphalt can be utilized above the high water mark. Floating structures have the least effect on the near shore/littoral zone. There may be a small impact caused by the anchoring device and a slight reduction of light penetration beneath the structure. These structures are placed after ice-out and removed prior to freeze up. These activities are exempted from requiring a Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Permit. Wharves and piers supported by posts generally have little impact on the near

shore/littoral zone depending on the number and size of posts, quality of fish habitat present and construction methods. Crib supports may impact the near shore/littoral zone because of the relatively large area that they cover. They may also interfere with water movement leading to a degradation of water quality. Solid structures supported by concrete, sheet piling or cribbing are constructed so that there is no open space between the supporting members. Area lost when covered by these supporting members could constitute a loss of fish habitat. Water movement is also inhibited by these structures which may affect water quality, erosion and deposition patterns, and food availability for the near shore/littoral zone. Slipways are structures constructed landwards of the waters edge and at an elevation completely above the water level at the time that the project is carried out. These structures generally have little impact on the near shore/littoral zone.

Application Requirements In addition to the standard information required on the application form, a copy of the following must be included: 1. plan, profile and cross sectional

drawings to scale; 2. a full description of the proposed

construction method and materials; 3. timing and scheduling of the proposed

activity; 4. a description of all equipment and

methods to be used; 5. contingency plan in the event of an

accidental fuel or lubricant spill; and 6. if dredging refer to requirements in

“Section 3.10 – Dredging”. Installation of floating docks does not require a Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Permit if the following conditions are met:



1. The floating dock is removed prior to freeze up.

2. Installation of the floating dock does not

require any excavation or construction activity within 10 metres of the watercourse or wetland.

3. The floating dock is constructed from

materials which are not toxic to aquatic life.

Failure to submit required documents could result in the return of the application without it being processed. Other Government Agencies Involved 1) Unless ownership rights were granted,

lands below the normal high water mark are owned by the Province of PEI. To verify ownership rights, the proponent’s original deed should be checked and the lot should be surveyed. The Prince Edward Island Department of Transportation and Public Works will be contacted through the Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Program process.

2) The approval of Transport Canada,

which administers the Navigable Waters Protection Act must be obtained when a structure is to be placed in or across any navigable watercourse.

3) Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is

responsible for protecting fish and fish habitat across Canada. Under the Fisheries Act, no one may carry out a work or undertaking that will cause the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat unless it has been authorized by DFO. Authorization, if required, must be obtained before the activity can occur.

Guidelines Wharves, piers, floating docks and slipways should not be situated immediately adjacent to critical fish habitat or shellfish grounds since Fisheries and Oceans Canada prohibits harvesting of shellfish within 125

metres of every wharf, pier and floating dock. The wharf or pier must not encroach into the navigation channel or obstruct navigation. When building or repairing wharf facilities use only cured and dried treated timber. Creosote timber is not recommended in the aquatic environment. All treated wood must be air dried for a period of at least 6 months prior to construction. Touch-up painting of cut ends should be carried out away from the water and allowed to dry for a minimum of one week prior to being re-used. All fresh concrete must be placed in forms and cured for at least one week prior to form removal. Any pre-cast concrete must be cured for a period of at least three weeks before being placed in the watercourse. Boat launch ramps/slipways must be stabilized with clean, non-erodible, non-ore bearing material. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean, washed condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks. Wash, refuel and service equipment and store fuel and other materials a minimum of 30 metres away from the watercourse to prevent any deleterious substance from entering the water. Keep an emergency spill kit on site in case of machinery leak or spills. Timing of work must not coincide with periods of increased sensitivity for fish (i.e., spawning and egg incubation) or shellfish (i.e., spatfall). Recycled materials such as old metal drums or tires should not be used because they may contain substances harmful to water quality and aquatic life. Plastic drums used for dock flotation must be clean and sealed before placement in the water.



Styrofoam, if used for floating docks, must be enclosed as it is a potential hazard to the fish if mistaken for food. Surfacing material for slipways can include crushed gravel/shale, asphalt millings and concrete.

For Government Purposes Wharves and Piers: Applications require Regulatory and Advisory Review. Floating Docks: If the above conditions are met, no watercourse alteration review is required. However, the activity may be subject to other review (e.g., NWPA). Slipways: Applications require a Regulatory Review.

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